Two missing juveniles found dead from apparent gunshot wounds in wooded area

JPD reports teens found on hillside above 6800 block of Glacier Highway on Monday afternoon, after issuing an advisory when both were reported missing earlier in the day

Leotis R. Phillips, left, and Zoey L. Clark, both 16, are being sought by the Juneau Police Department, which warns the teens may have a firearm and thus advises people not to contact them. (Photos provided by the Juneau Police Department)

By Mark Sabbatini

Juneau Independent

The original version of this story has been updated to note the missing teenagers have been found deceased.

Two juveniles reported missing on Monday morning, with an advisory issued to avoid contact since they potentially had a firearm, were found dead during the afternoon of apparent gunshot wounds in a wooded area near Switzer Village Mobile Home Park, according to the Juneau Police Department.

Leotis R. Phillips, 16, was reported missing from his residence on Kanata Street at about 5:52 a.m. and Zoey L. Clark, 16, from her residence on Teal Street at about 8:49 a.m., according to a JPD information release. The release stated Phillips and Clark were believed to be together.

"Because the juveniles may have access to a firearm, members of the public should not approach them or attempt to contact them," the release stated.

An update to the press release issued at about 5:30 p.m. stated the teenagers were found dead in a wooded area above the 6800 block of Glacier Highway at about 2:25 p.m.

"Preliminary information indicates that both juveniles died from gunshot wounds," the update notes. "A firearm was located at the scene. Their bodies will be sent to the Alaska State Medical Examiner’s Office in Anchorage for autopsy."

Next of kin has been notified and the investigation remains ongoing, according to JPD. The department notes the Juneau School District "plans to make support and counseling services available to students and staff affected by this tragedy."

• Contact Mark Sabbatini at editor@juneauindependent.com or (907) 957-2306.