A 22-year-old Juneau man who died following an 80-foot fall earlier this month died from drowning, according to an investigation by the Juneau Police Department.
Evan Smith jumped from his window early Sunday morning after police arrived at his apartment near Cordova Street on Douglas Island to investigate a disturbance. Smith, along with two other people, jumped and fled into nearby woods to avoid talking to police, JPD Chief Greg Browning said in an earlier interview with the Empire. He said the officers who responded “weren’t actively pursuing them at the time.”
Smith and his girlfriend, 18-year-old Jamie Vonda fell from a cliff into Kowee Creek. Vonda survived the fall, but was seriously injured. An update on her condition was not available at press time.
Comments (8)
Add commentHeart Breaking
We continue to hold this family up, as well as the young lady who was injured. Please know you continue to be in our thoughts.
Not in my thoughts.
Not in my thoughts.
Why run from the law
It is truly sad that this young man has died before he really lived. Why did he sneak out a second story window, jump to the ground and enter the woods late at night? What was he thinking? Where did he plan to go?
Not all the children make it to old age. What we, the living, learn from the mistakes of others helps us survive longer.
Agreed
Agreed, AKjustice. Hopefully, some young people will learn from this tragedy. Regardless of why this young man was where he was, a family has lost a loved son and brother. As I posted previously, this family continues to be in my thoughts.
WHY?
Why didn't the girl do something to save him before he drowned. Big ? There should be a thorough investigation. And, why run? And, what were they doing at that time of night? I was told they were arguing and disturbing the peace thats why the police were called. Seems there is other reason's for the police being called.
Domestic Violence Never Leads to Anything Good
If they wouldn't have been fighting at 3am, this would not have happened.
@Sage50 - Maybe because she
@Sage50 - Maybe because she wasn't in the water and maybe because what I heard (rumor) was that her shin bone was sticking out above her knee. She was in no shape to help him.
Tragic loss
OMG! I'm completely flabergasted at the in-sensitive remarks made regarding the TRAGIC ACCIDENT, of this young man! Who woulda thought such a thing could happen.... such things do happen! That's why they are referred to as.. freak accidents! So many "why's" and "why nots"! I grew up asking this same question! The response I got, is " because why has a long tail"! In cases such as this, we will never know WHY! Questioning the actions by all involved is pointless! I knew this young man, and I feel his mothers loss! Peace be with you, Mom and family. Give this family the respect they deserve. You have my deepest sympathy!