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Fatal Traffic Collision

Event date: Monday, May 09, 2011, from 9:31 AM to 9:31 AM

Date: 05/08/11
Time: 10:00 AM
Report #: 11-11018
Location: Scottsdale Rd just north of Jackrabbit Rd
Victim Info: Randall Bjerken, 51 year old Palmer Alaska resident and his wife
Doris Bjerken, 50 years old
Suspect Data: Andrew Whalen, 23 year old Scottsdale resident
Details:

Update:

The driver, Andrew Whalen, a 23 year old Scottsdale resident, made statements that he fell asleep while driving. Based on the investigation, witness interviews, and Whalen’s statements, charges are being submitted to the County Attorney’s office for 2 counts of Negligent Homicide. Whalen was not booked (no photo available).

Original Report:
On Sunday at 10:00 AM the victims were walking southbound on the sidewalk on the west side of Scottsdale Road north of Jackrabbit when a GMC SUV drove up onto the sidewalk and struck both pedestrians then a power pole. The victims were transported to the hospital and were pronounced dead. The driver of the GMC was also transported to SHC-Osborn where he was treated and released for his non-life threatening injuries.

Alcohol is not a factor in this collision. Any possible charges for the 23 year old driver are pending further investigation.