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Dear UAF community,

Today, the Alaska State Troopers announced that they had made an arrest in the murder of Sophie Sergie, a young woman who was found murdered on campus in April of 1993.

The suspect, Steven H. Downs, 44, was arrested in Maine earlier today. He will be returned to Alaska to face charges of murder and sexual assault.

Sophie’s tragic death was a heartbreaking loss for her family and friends. It sent shock waves throughout our university and local community, and challenged our sense of security. Thank you to the Alaska State Troopers and all of the other law enforcement agencies locally and nationally who never gave up hope of finding Sophie’s killer.

While today’s news is a step toward justice for Sophie and her family, it is also a reminder of a traumatic chapter in our community’s history. If you are struggling with this news, please reach out for help.

For students, the Student Health and Counseling Center can provide support or counseling. Call 474-7043 to speak with someone, or, for more information, visit https://uaf.edu/chc/services/counseling.php. Employees are eligible for free counseling through the Employee Assistance Program. Please call 1-888-993-7650, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Sincerely,
Dan White
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