Alaska State Troopers say they have identified a suspect in a June double homicide in Wasilla. The victims, 30-year-old Crystal Denardi and 43-year-old Ben Gross, were shot to death and left in a burning garage.
The suspect is in federal custody for unrelated charges, troopers said in an online dispatch. They have not yet charged the suspect with Denardi and Gross’ deaths, and will not release the suspect’s identity until charges are filed, troopers explained.
“The Alaska State Troopers have been actively investigating the deaths of Denardi and Gross, in conjunction with federal authorities, including ATF, DEA, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, in coordination with the Palmer DA’s Office,” troopers wrote.
The investigation began June 5, when someone called 911 around 4 a.m. to report a possible shooting. When emergency responders arrived at the home on West Cole Road, they found the garage on fire. Denardi and Gross were found inside, and a third person at the home was injured. That victim was treated at a hospital and released.
An autopsy showed Denardi and Gross died from gunshot wounds, not the fire. Investigators said the fire made their investigation more difficult, as it likely destroyed evidence.
This is a developing story, please check back for updates.
