On August 11, 2023, at approximately 3:47 PM, Anchorage Police Department officers responded to reports of a shooting near the intersection of Schodde Street and Tarwater Drive in the Mountain View neighborhood. Upon arrival, they discovered 24-year-old Leimarliana Popoalii and an adult male victim, both suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency medical services transported them to a local hospital, where Popoalii was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
The male victim underwent surgery; his condition was not immediately disclosed.
Witnesses reported that Popoalii and 31-year-old Juliana Khatthamane were engaged in a physical altercation in the street, with both women's children present. During the confrontation, Popoalii was observed on top of Khatthamane, punching her and pulling her hair. After the two separated, Popoalii allegedly kicked Khatthamane in the head as she sat on the ground. Subsequently, Khatthamane retrieved a firearm and discharged multiple rounds, striking both Popoalii and the male victim. Video evidence captured by a bystander corroborated these events.
Following the incident, Khatthamane was taken into custody and charged with first-degree and second-degree murder in connection with Popoalii's death, as well as first-degree assault for injuring the male victim. She was remanded to Hiland Mountain Correctional Center. Authorities indicated that the shooting was related to a domestic violence situation.
