FPD Press Release- Fatality Accident - Case #22-4133

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Fatality Accident – Case #22-4133

DATE: October 12, 2022

MEDIA CONTACT: Teal Soden, Public Information Officer, 907-459-6793, tsoden@fairbanks.us

This morning, at approximately 3:30am, a Fairbanks Police Officer attempted to perform a traffic stop on the driver of a Toyota Corolla near Airport Way and Market Street. The officer suspected that the driver, later identified as CARL ROBERT RAVENSCROFT (DOB 08/13/88) was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. RAVENSCROFT also had an active warrant for Eluding, Criminal Mischief, and Failure to Stop at the Direction of a Police Officer. The suspect drove away as soon as the officer attempted to make contact. 

Officers pursued the vehicle as it continued down Peger Road and then onto a side road. When he reached the end of the side road, the suspect drove the vehicle into a steep gravel pit where it was submerged in deep water. He was able to get out of the vehicle but went under the water as he attempted to swim to shore.

University Fire Department and Fairbanks Fire Department (FFD) were called to the scene to attempt a water rescue. Launching a boat in the gravel pit was particularly difficult due to the very steep decline from the road down into the pit.

At approximately 9:45am, FFD recovered RAVENSCROFT’s body. Next of kin has been notified and his body will be sent to the medical examiner’s office for an autopsy and toxicology screening. The vehicle will be recovered within the next week.  

We would like to thank Fairbanks Fire Department, University Fire Department, Fairbanks Emergency Communications Center, and Interior Towing for their assistance during this incident.

Anyone with further information regarding this incident can contact FPD Detectives at fpdinvestigations@fairbanks.us or 907-450-6550.

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