The Alakanuk Police Department notified the Emmonak State troopers on Saturday morning at about 10:47 am of an incident at the Alakanuk Jail.

The Alakanuk Police informed the troopers that they had just found Leon Joseph, age 37, of Alakanuk hung in his cell. Joseph had been awaiting arraignment on DUI, Resisting Arrest and Assaulting a Police Officer charges.

According to the report, Joseph used the drawstring from his sweatpants in the act. He was discovered by members of the police department. The officers immediately began CPR in an attempt to revive him, but were unsuccessful. Joseph was pronounced dead at 10:53 am by medical personnel.

The State Medical Examiner’s office was notified of the death and Joseph’s body was transported to Anchorage for autopsy.

Police say alcohol was a factor in the incident. Next of kin has been notified.

The investigation into Joseph’s death continues.