WASILLA, Alaska (KTUU) – Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the death of a young child in Wasilla, Alaska, after an investigation revealed fatal abuse and neglect.
Alaska State Troopers responded to a call reporting CPR in progress on a child on August 11, 2025. The child was transported to the hospital but later died from their injuries. The death was officially ruled a homicide following a medical investigation.
Authorities say Jackie Caswell has been charged with second-degree murder, criminally negligent homicide, and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. Her co-defendant, Sergie Krukoff, faces two counts of child endangerment as well.
According to court documents, a Palmer Grand Jury determined that both Caswell and Krukoff “recklessly failed to provide adequate food and liquids to the child,” leading to severe health impairment.
Palmer District Attorney Tina Sears confirmed the child, who was under 6 years old, suffered a traumatic brain injury caused by Caswell kicking her. A witness stated that the couple routinely deprived the child of food, even attempting to secretly feed her when possible.
Despite arrest warrants being issued on September 26, both suspects went into hiding. They were apprehended and taken into custody on Saturday at the Mat-Su Pretrial facility.
Troopers clarified that while the child was not related to Caswell or Krukoff, she was under their care at the time of her death. The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, and the investigation remains active.
