A 40-year-old man in Alakanuk died outside his home last Thursday. Around 3pm on February 16th, Alaska State Troopers in St. Mary’s were informed that Paul Ayunerak had been found dead lying in the snow.
While riding a snowmachine, Ayunerak of Alakanuk had gotten stuck in deep snow near his home. Troopers suspect Ayunerak died from exposure to the elements as he was found with his clothes off in the snow about 50 yards away from his house.
Alaska Dispatch reports that removing clothing, also referred to as “paradoxical undressing,” can be a warning sign of severe hypothermia, according to a 2012 study published in the International Journal of Circumpolar Health.
Ayunerak’s remains were transported to Anchorage for an autopsy. According to Troopers, alcohol is believed to have been a factor in his death.
