An Alakanuk woman died early Tuesday from injuries she sustained in an all-terrain vehicle crash on a road in the village, according to Alaska State Troopers.
A Tuesday AST dispatch says troopers in St. Mary's and Emmonak were notified shortly after 1:40 a.m. Tuesday that 30-year-old Lois Chikigak lost control of an ATV she was driving at high speeds. Chikigak suffered severe injuries when it rolled over on her and was taken to the local clinic, but was soon pronounced dead there.
AST spokesperson Megan Peters says the crash was reported by someone who heard it happen and called authorities. Alcohol is suspected to have been a factor in the crash, based on observations made at the scene.
"They could smell the odor of alcohol on her person," Peters said. "Of course, toxicology (results) would have to confirm intoxication, but that's why troopers believe that."
Chikigak's next of kin have been notified, and her body will undergo an autopsy at the state medical examiner's office. The crash remains under investigation.
Contact Chris Klint