Anchorage, Alaska – In a striking twist of fate, a stolen memory card from a truck in Anchorage, Alaska, has become a pivotal piece of evidence in a gruesome double murder trial. The card, which was taken by a woman with a history of theft and assault, contained shocking footage that is now central to the prosecution of Brian Steven Smith, a 52-year-old South Africa native.
Background of the Case:
More than four years ago, a woman stole a digital memory card from a truck in downtown Anchorage. Little did she know, the card contained harrowing photos and videos of a woman being beaten and strangled in a Marriott hotel. The voice in the footage, speaking with a strong accent, was later identified as Smith’s. He was already known to police from a prior investigation.
The Victims and the Accused:
The victims, Kathleen Henry (30) and Veronica Abouchuk (52), were both Alaska Native women who had experienced homelessness and were from small villages in western Alaska. Smith, who has pleaded not guilty to 14 charges including first- and second-degree murder, assault, and tampering with evidence, is accused of killing them both.