Mark Cook Jr.
Mark Cook Jr., 27, was from Hoonah, and his family held ceremonies for him before his organs were donated. His grandfather, Tom Abel, said Mark had back pain from years of manual labor and was in constant pain after a car crash crushed his spine weeks before his death. Alaska State Troopers said he was found hanging in his cell at Lemon Creek Correctional Center in April 2023 and that there was no evidence of foul play; he died the next day after being kept on life support. His family says institutional problems, including solitary-type confinement, untreated pain and a lack of medical attention, led to his death. Abel was scheduled to testify to lawmakers about his grandson's death at a legislative hearing that was canceled.
Cause of death, as reported: Died by suicide (disputed; neglect alleged). Alaska State Troopers said there was no evidence of foul play, while his grandfather, Thomas Abel, says solitary-type confinement, untreated pain and lack of medical attention led to his death.
Reported by: Alaska State Troopers (outside investigators); his grandfather, Thomas Abel (family or their lawyers).
Lawsuit: His family has filed a lawsuit seeking restitution and damages over his death, but no amount has been reported.
News reports (4)
- Man dies at Juneau correctional facility in Alaska’s third in-custody death in a month
- Family says man’s death in Lemon Creek Correctional Center was avoidable
- Republican lawmakers abruptly cancel hearing on Alaska prison deaths over legal concerns
- Alaska Department of Corrections reports record-tying 18 deaths in custody this year