Two Teens Found Shot Dead Near Juneau After Vanishing

Two 16-year-olds have been found shot dead in Alaska woods hours after they vanished from sight. Their bodies were discovered near the Glacier Highway above Juneau, a coastal route close to Glacier Bay National Park. Police confirm that Leotis Phillips and Zoey Clark were reported missing on August 31 before investigators located their remains around 3pm. Preliminary reports state both teens died from gunshot wounds. A firearm was found at the scene but authorities cannot yet say who pulled the trigger or exactly how this tragedy unfolded. Phillips left his home on Kanata Street just before 6am while Clark went missing from her residence on Teal Street a few hours later. At that time, officers believed the teenagers were together and warned the public they might have access to a gun. Residents were told absolutely not to approach them or try to contact them. The bodies will be sent to the Alaska State Medical Examiner's Office in Anchorage for an autopsy. The investigation remains ongoing as police seek answers. A relative of Phillips posted on Facebook following the discovery, saying it was with a heavy heart that their family is grieving this devastating loss. That post identified the deceased young man as Leo Phillips and asked the community to keep the Deitshetaan family uplifted in prayer. Police say the Juneau School District will provide support and counseling services for students and staff affected by this tragedy. The department also extended its condolences to families, friends, classmates, and others touched by this heartbreaking event.