Kobe Cook, a 20-year-old Alaskan Native from Alakanuk, was shot to death on August 22, 2023, after a confrontation inside a village residence. According to investigators, Cook entered the home and immediately began fighting with another adult male. During that altercation, 19-year-old Josiah Chikigak reportedly discharged a .22-caliber rifle multiple times, striking Cook. Cook exited the residence and was taken to the village clinic, where he later died.

Alaska State Troopers from Emmonak and the Alaska Bureau of Investigation responded. A sworn affidavit says Chikigak told investigators he shot Cook inside the home and that Cook had followed him home after drinking together; Chikigak also said Cook broke into the house later. One of Chikigak’s family members witnessed the shooting, shell casings were found inside the home, and investigators reported no sign of forced entry. Cook’s body was sent to the Alaska State Medical Examiner’s Office and next of kin were notified. Chikigak was arrested and charged with second-degree murder and remains in custody pending further proceedings.

If anyone knew Kobe, was in Alakanuk on August 22, 2023, or has information about the events that night, please share what is known.