Man Sentenced to Life for Strangling Roommate to Death

Alex Hanson will be eligible for parole after 22 years for killing his 62-year-old roommate Jeffrey Falkenstein.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

A man in Reno, Nevada named Alex Hanson has been sentenced to life in prison for strangling his 62-year-old roommate Jeffrey Falkenstein to death. Hanson called 911 to report the death, telling the dispatcher that he and Falkenstein had gotten into an argument the night before. Hanson also called his mother the next morning, saying he 'might've killed somebody' and that he 'freaked out'.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the need for better resources and support to prevent such incidents. The sentencing also raises questions about the parole system and whether life sentences are appropriate for certain types of homicides.

The details

According to the details, Hanson and Falkenstein had been roommates for six months prior to the incident and had not gotten along, often bickering and fighting. On September 18, 2025, Hanson called 911 to report that Falkenstein was dead in their home, saying they had 'got into it' the night before. The next morning, Hanson called his mother and said he 'might've killed somebody' and that he 'freaked out'.

  • On September 18, 2025, Hanson called 911 to report Falkenstein's death.
  • The next morning, on September 19, 2025, Hanson called his mother about the incident.

The players

Alex Hanson

A man who strangled his 62-year-old roommate Jeffrey Falkenstein to death and has been sentenced to life in prison, with the possibility of parole after 22 years.

Jeffrey Falkenstein

A 62-year-old man who was strangled to death by his roommate Alex Hanson.

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What they’re saying

“I think I might've killed somebody”

— Alex Hanson (Mother's account)

“I freaked out”

— Alex Hanson (Mother's account)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Hanson's eligibility for parole after he serves 22 years of his life sentence.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for better resources and support to address domestic violence and prevent such senseless acts of violence in the future.