Pa Le Her Obituary, Cause of Death: Wasilla Nurse and Mother of Three Killed in Reflections Lake Shooting
WASILLA, Alaska — The Wasilla community and healthcare workers across the Matanuska-Susitna Borough are mourning the death of Pa Le Her, a 30-year-old registered nurse and mother of three, following a fatal shooting at Reflections Lake along the Glenn Highway.
According to information attributed to the Alaska State Troopers, emergency dispatchers received a 911 call shortly before 5 p.m. Monday, September 28, 2026, reporting a firearm-related disturbance at the Reflections Lake recreation area.
When state troopers and Wasilla Police officers arrived, Her was found suffering from gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Domestic Violence Incident Under Investigation
Investigators determined that the shooting followed a domestic altercation involving Her and her husband, 36-year-old Chang Thao.
Authorities said Thao suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound during the incident. He was transported to a regional hospital but later died from his injuries that same evening.
The Alaska Bureau of Investigation (ABI) has taken responsibility for the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Investigators also reported that gunfire struck several parked vehicles in the recreation area. No additional bystander injuries were reported.
The bodies of Her and Thao were transported to the State Medical Examiner’s Office in Anchorage for formal autopsies. Authorities have confirmed that their next of kin were notified.
Remembering Pa Le Her
Her is being remembered by colleagues, friends and members of the local healthcare community as a compassionate nurse and devoted mother.
At 30 years old, she was balancing her professional work in nursing with raising three children. Those who knew her have expressed grief over her sudden death and offered support to her surviving children and extended family.
Details about memorial services and any formal community fundraising efforts for the children had not been finalized in the information provided.
Community Mourns
The death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from healthcare workers, nursing colleagues and members of the Wasilla community.
Friends and former co-workers have remembered Her for her commitment to caring for patients and her dedication to her family. As the investigation continues, community members are extending prayers and support to her three children, relatives and everyone affected by the tragedy.
Authorities are expected to provide additional information as the investigation and medical examiner’s procedures progress.
