Klawock police chief Terry Stonecipher died unexpectedly Monday morning. He was the sole officer of the Klawock Police Department.
The City of Klawock reported his death and also posted a notice that flags will be flying at half-staff on the Prince of Wales Island community.
Nick Nickerson, Mayor of Klawock, says that he has been receiving calls from grieving residents since Stonecipher’s death was announced by the City on social media.
Nickerson stated, “He was a great Chief.” This community will miss him greatly. He was kind, caring, and extremely respectful of all residents of the community.
Stonecipher held the position since 2005. Stonecipher also worked for Metlakatla’s police department.
Bruce Janes, Metlakatla’s current chief of police, stated that Stonecipher was an exceptional public servicer.
Janes stated, “As a supervisor he’s probably the best police officer I’ve ever worked for in my 29-year history,” Janes added.
Stonecipher was Jane’s mentor and helped her on the job in the 1990s.
Janes stated that Terry was one of those men who had a job. Janes said, “But he treated everyone with respect.”
Janes lived right next to Stonecipher in Metlakatla. Stonecipher has left behind Juliet and his two children.
Janes stated that Terry’s children were her kids.
After four years in Metlakatla, Stonecipher came to Bethel and worked for the local police department more than a decade. Janes stated that Stonecipher also worked in probation before moving down to Southeast.
Nickerson stated that Stonecipher’s death has resulted in no Klawock police officers.
He said, “We don’t have an acting chief.” “We don’t even have any officers.”
Nickerson stated that Klawock will have Alaska State Troopers answering 911 calls, and Craig Police Department officers patrolling the area when they can. Klawock residents are asked to dial 911 for emergency calls, and not the Klawock Police Department number .
Nickerson didn’t answer any questions regarding Stonecipher’s death cause or suspicion. The investigation is being handled by Alaska State Troopers. Nickerson stated that Stonecipher’s remains would be taken to Anchorage’s state medical examiner for an autopsy.
Stonecipher will be driven by Alaska State Troopers, Craig Police Department officers and Hollis ferry terminal guards on Tuesday morning. His remains will be buried in a flag-draped coffin. The public is invited to participate in the procession and flash their lights to show support.
The city posted on social media that “any community member who wishes pay respects to Chief Stonecipher may either join in the procession or be along side the road with flashing light as he makes the final journey through Klawock.” “Klawock Fire Dept. and EMS will be alongside the road with flashing emergency lighting as he travels through tomorrow morning.”
