Caleb Irwin Arrested in 4th Avenue Homicide Investigation
Update—5:10PM—05/30/23:
From the Attorney General’s Office:
Today, the Anchorage District Attorney’s Office dismissed charges of murder in the second degree and manslaughter against Caleb Irwin. Irwin passed away from medical complications while awaiting trial. Irwin was charged with stabbing 27-year-old Briar Dickson to death in downtown Anchorage on June 3, 2022.
On April 14, 2023, Briar Dickson’s mother, father, sisters, and neighbors gave emotional statements at a hearing before Irwin’s death. The hearing was held to release Irwin to hospice for illness, a decision supported by Dickson’s family and friends. Dickson was described as a “bright, strong, and special young man.” They expressed that June 3, 2022, was the hardest day of their lives and that they still think about Dickson every day. In addition, they all expressed forgiveness to Irwin for his actions.
Despite the pending charges, Irwin decided to speak at the hearing before his death. He apologized to Dickson’s family, asked “God for the judgment that [he] deserve[s]”, and expressed remorse for killing Dickson.
This case was investigated by the Anchorage Police Department’s homicide and robbery-assault units and was led by Homicide Detective David Cordie. The Anchorage District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the Anchorage Police Department for its diligent and thorough investigation of this incident. It also would like to express its condolences to Briar Dickson’s family and thank them for their support of their loved one.
Update--10:00am--6/04/22:
The victim has been identified as 27-year-old Briar C. Dickson
Update—11:00am—06/03/22:
The suspect has been identified as 40-year-old Caleb E. Irwin. After being interviewed by detectives, he was remanded at the Anchorage Jail on the charge of Murder I.
The victim’s identity will be released once next of kin procedures are complete.
Update--8:32am--06/03/22:
The victim has died from their injuries. This is now being investigated as a homicide.
The victim's identity will be released pending next of kin notification.
Original--2:55am--06/03/22:
At 1:34 AM on June 03, 2022, Anchorage Police responded to the 300-block of W 4th Avenue in reference to a stabbing victim. Initial indications are that a physical altercation broke out between two adult males wherein one stabbed the other in the upper body. The victim was transported to a local area hospital with life-threatening injuries.
One adult male suspect was taken into custody and is being questioned by detectives with the Anchorage Police Department. While the circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation, it appears this was an isolated event.
4th Avenue is currently closed between C and D Street. Please avoid the area.
APD Case 22-17891