Family of 49-Year-Old John Sibole Grieves After Fatal Shooting in Willow; Suspect in Custody

WILLOW, Alaska – The family of 49-year-old John Sibole is mourning his tragic death after a fatal shooting in Willow on the night of March 10, 2025. Sibole was shot and killed following a dispute that escalated earlier in the day, leaving behind loved ones who are now struggling to understand how a disagreement led to such a devastating loss.

At approximately 9:15 p.m. on Monday evening, Alaska State Troopers were called to North McKinley Way, near the Willow Townsite Food Mart. Upon arrival, officers discovered Sibole’s lifeless body. He had suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen and was pronounced dead at the scene. The person responsible for the shooting, 31-year-old Jared Higgins, was arrested shortly after and taken into custody.

The tragic incident reportedly began earlier that day when a family member of Sibole went to Higgins’ home to assist him with cleaning and gathering firewood. An argument ensued between the two, after which Higgins allegedly became physical, shoving the woman. Later that evening, Sibole arrived at the residence to confront Higgins about the altercation, which ultimately led to a violent exchange. Higgins told investigators that Sibole struck him multiple times, prompting him to fire the gunshot that took Sibole’s life.

As law enforcement continues their investigation, the family of John Sibole is left to mourn the loss of a father, a brother, and a friend. Sibole was known to his community as a kind and generous person, someone who was always there to lend a helping hand. His family members have expressed shock and sadness over the senseless violence that has taken him from them far too soon.

“Our hearts are broken,” said a family member of Sibole. “John was a good man who didn’t deserve to lose his life like this. We’re just trying to make sense of everything right now, but it’s hard. We miss him terribly.”

Witnesses at the scene reported that Higgins had pointed the firearm at them during the aftermath of the shooting, and multiple individuals, including the woman who had been involved in the earlier dispute, attempted to administer CPR to Sibole in vain. Higgins was later arrested and is facing serious charges, including second-degree murder and three counts of third-degree assault.

While the investigation continues, family members are calling for justice, hoping that the circumstances surrounding the incident will lead to a fair legal process.

As the case unfolds, the community of Willow remains shaken, with many coming together to support the family of John Sibole in their time of grief. Friends and family have begun to gather in his memory, holding vigils and sharing stories of the man they knew and loved. In the wake of such tragedy, there is a shared hope for healing and accountability as this case progresses.

John Sibole’s family asks for privacy during this difficult time but has expressed their appreciation for the support they have already received from the community. They continue to remember him as a caring individual who made a positive impact on those around him.

The investigation is ongoing, and Higgins will appear in court for his first hearing on March 11, 2025. The family of John Sibole is left to process their loss and seek justice for the life taken too soon.