A 20-year-old man has been indicted on charges of first- and second-degree murder in the fatal stabbing of a 37-year-old man in East Anchorage. Derrek Logoleo was arrested in August and was already a person of interest in the case. The stabbing took place in an apartment building, and witnesses reported an argument between the two men over a woman. Logoleo admitted to stabbing the victim while he was asleep. He is currently in custody with a bail set at $350,000. Tess Williams reported
A 20-year-old man has been indicted on charges of first- and second-degree murder in connection with a fatal stabbing that took place in East Anchorage in May. Derrek Logoleo was arrested in late August for the death of 37-year-old Leanoano Pati. Logoleo’s arrest came as part of a separate investigation after he had already been identified as a “person of interest” in the stabbing, which occurred in an apartment in the Russian Jack neighborhood.
The incident occurred on May 9 when the landlord reported a “loud verbal argument” at an apartment building on the 1000 block of Hoyt Street. The landlord later called back, stating that a police response was no longer necessary and that eviction paperwork would be filed. Approximately 30 minutes later, another individual called 911 to report that someone was seriously injured and in need of medical assistance. This caller mentioned hearing arguing in the same unit mentioned earlier by the landlord.
Tragically, when the police arrived, Pati was already deceased. He shared the apartment with a roommate, according to the Deputy District Attorney Trina Sears, who provided a summary of the police reports that accompanied the charges. The summary also revealed that security footage captured multiple individuals entering and leaving the apartment building and the specific unit on the morning of the incident. Investigators interviewed these people and identified Logoleo as a suspect. Several witnesses mentioned that the two men had argued over a woman prior to the stabbing.
During an interview with detectives, Logoleo confessed to stabbing Pati while the older man was asleep, according to the summary. As a result, Logoleo was taken into custody and is being held on a $350,000 bail. As of Wednesday afternoon, he remained in custody at the Anchorage Correctional Complex.
The tragic incident highlights the severity of the crime and the impact it has on the community. The indictment of Logoleo on charges of first- and second-degree murder emphasizes the legal consequences he may face if found guilty. The authorities have diligently investigated the case, relying on surveillance footage and witness testimonies to build a strong case against the suspect.
The loss of a life is always a tragedy, and this incident has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the victim’s loved ones. The court proceedings and subsequent trial will provide an opportunity for justice to be served and closure for those affected by this senseless act of violence.
It is crucial to note that an indictment does not imply guilt, and Logoleo is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The legal process will continue as the case progresses, and the truth behind the events leading to Pati’s untimely death will hopefully be revealed.
The Anchorage community mourns the loss of Leanoano Pati and stands together in solidarity with his family and friends during this difficult time. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering a safe and peaceful environment for all residents, where conflicts can be resolved peacefully and without resorting to violence..