Pa Le Her, Wasilla Mother and Husband Chang Thao Died in Murder-Suicide at Reflections Lake in Alaska
The Wasilla, Alaska, community is mourning the tragic death of Pa Le Her, a 30-year-old woman whose life came to an unexpected end following a deadly incident at Reflections Lake near Wasilla on September 28, 2026.
According to the Alaska State Troopers, Pa Le Her was killed in what investigators are treating as a murder-suicide involving her husband, Chang Thao, 36. The heartbreaking incident has left family members, friends, and loved ones grieving the loss of a woman whose life was connected to those who cared deeply for her.
Pa Le Her Cause of Death
Authorities reported that Pa Le Her died after being intentionally shot at Reflections Lake near the Glenn Highway.
The Alaska Bureau of Investigation is continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding her death. While investigators have released preliminary details about the incident, additional information regarding what led to the shooting has not yet been made public.
Out of respect for Pa Le Her’s family and loved ones, only confirmed information should be considered while the investigation remains ongoing.
Tragic Incident at Reflections Lake
Emergency crews were called to Reflections Lake at approximately 4:52 p.m. on September 28 following reports of a firearm-related disturbance.
When Alaska State Troopers and Wasilla Police Department officers arrived, they discovered a devastating scene involving a married couple.
Investigators determined that Chang Thao shot Pa Le Her before later shooting himself. Pa Le Her was pronounced dead at the scene.
Thao was transported to a Mat-Su area hospital with life-threatening injuries but later died at approximately 9:20 p.m.
Authorities confirmed that next of kin notifications were completed.
Remembering Pa Le Her
Although details about Pa Le Her’s personal life remain limited, her passing represents a devastating loss for everyone who knew and loved her.
Family members and friends are now left remembering the moments they shared with her, the relationships she built, and the role she played in the lives of those closest to her.
For loved ones, Pa Le Her will be remembered not only because of the tragic circumstances surrounding her death, but because of the person she was before that heartbreaking day.
Community Responds to the Tragedy
The deaths of Pa Le Her and Chang Thao have deeply affected the Wasilla community.
Reflections Lake, known as a peaceful outdoor location where residents gather for recreation and relaxation, became the location of a tragedy that shocked many people across the area.
Authorities acknowledged that incidents involving domestic violence and the loss of two lives can have a significant emotional impact on families and communities.
Investigation Continues
The Alaska Bureau of Investigation remains responsible for investigating the case.
Both deaths were taken to the State Medical Examiner’s Office for autopsies as investigators continue working to understand the complete timeline of events.
Officials have not released further details about the circumstances leading up to the shooting or any possible factors involved.
Funeral and Memorial Information
Funeral arrangements, visitation details, and memorial service information for Pa Le Her have not been publicly released at this time.
Additional details may be shared by her family when arrangements are finalized.
Honoring Pa Le Her’s Memory
Pa Le Her’s life was cut short in a tragic event that has left her family and community facing unimaginable grief.
As investigators continue their work, those who loved her are left to remember the person she was, the connections she created, and the memories that will continue to live on.
She will be remembered by her family, friends, and everyone whose life she touched.
May Pa Le Her rest in peace. Our thoughts and condolences go out to her loved ones as they navigate this painful loss.