During the early morning hours of Friday, upon receiving news that a 40 year-old Buckland man was possibly importing alcohol into the local option village of Buckland, VPO Lorin B. Geary investigated the tip and was shot in the process.

Geary, the Buckland VPO had responded to the beach early in the morning on Friday to meet 40-year-old Gary A. Ballot’s boat as it came ashore. Ballot was reported to be bringing in alcohol to the community of just over 400. Buckland previously voted to ban the importation of alcohol into the community.

Geary contacted Ballot as he made it to shore and Ballot exited his boat. It was during that time that Ballot shot Geary.

Concerned individuals in the community heard the commotion and responded to the beach. Ballot’s firearm was taken from him and he was taken into custody. Ballot received unspecified injuries as he was being arrested.

Geary was taken to the local clinic and later medevaced to Anchorage for treatment of his injury. Additional investigators are enroute to the community.

Ballot was transported to Kotzebue for treatment of his injuries sustained at the time of his arrest. He is being charged with Attempted Murder of a VPO and alcohol importation.

Investigators continue to interview witnesses and the investigation is ongoing.