By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | January 2026
The Wasilla Police Department has confirmed that Zakk Schuerch has been located safe, bringing relief to his family, friends, and the wider Mat-Su community.
Police posted the update late Wednesday, noting that the welfare check has been resolved and that Zakk is no longer considered missing. The department also removed his photo from public circulation to protect his privacy.
Community Response Made the Difference
Zakk was initially reported missing after he was last seen late Tuesday night near Palmer-Wasilla Highway and Luke Street, possibly heading toward Fred Meyer. When his family had not heard from him by Wednesday night, they contacted dispatch and officers requested public assistance.
As concern grew, especially with dangerous winter weather and extreme cold gripping the Mat-Su Valley, community members quickly shared alerts, checked cameras, and kept watch. That collective effort helped ensure a safe outcome.
Gratitude and Respect for Privacy
Zakk’s family expressed deep concern during the search, particularly given the severe weather conditions and the risk of exposure. This outcome is a reminder of how critical fast action and community awareness can be during winter emergencies in Alaska.
Authorities ask that the public now respect Zakk’s privacy as he reunites with loved ones.
Case Information
The welfare check was handled by the Wasilla Police Department.
Case number: 26-0060
This story has the ending everyone hoped for. Thank you to everyone who shared information, stayed alert, and helped bring Zakk home safe.
URGENT: Wasilla Community Seeks Help Finding Missing Man Zakk Schuerch
The Wasilla Police Department has confirmed that Zakk Schuerch has been located safe, bringing relief to his family, friends, and the wider Mat-Su community.
Police posted the update late Wednesday, noting that the welfare check has been resolved and that Zakk is no longer considered missing. The department also removed his photo from public circulation to protect his privacy.
Community Response Made the Difference
Zakk was initially reported missing after he was last seen late Tuesday night near Palmer-Wasilla Highway and Luke Street, possibly heading toward Fred Meyer. When his family had not heard from him by Wednesday night, they contacted dispatch and officers requested public assistance.
As concern grew, especially with dangerous winter weather and extreme cold gripping the Mat-Su Valley, community members quickly shared alerts, checked cameras, and kept watch. That collective effort helped ensure a safe outcome.
Gratitude and Respect for Privacy
Zakk’s family expressed deep concern during the search, particularly given the severe weather conditions and the risk of exposure. This outcome is a reminder of how critical fast action and community awareness can be during winter emergencies in Alaska.
Authorities ask that the public now respect Zakk’s privacy as he reunites with loved ones.
Case Information
The welfare check was handled by the Wasilla Police Department.
Case number: 26-0060
This story has the ending everyone hoped for. Thank you to everyone who shared information, stayed alert, and helped bring Zakk home safe.
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | January 2026
The Wasilla Police Department and Zakk Schuerch’s family are urgently asking for public assistance to locate him. Zakk was last seen late Tuesday night, January 6, near the Palmer‑Wasilla Highway and Luke Street, possibly heading toward Fred Meyer. His family had not heard from him by Wednesday night and authorities are now treating this as a critical welfare check.
According to his sister, Sara Schuerch, Zakk was sober when last in contact and did not have identification or money with him. A friend drove from Anchorage to pick him up, but he was not where he said he would be. His phone is dead, and he did not have a charger. Searches of the area so far have been unsuccessful.
What Zakk May Be Wearing
Sara has provided the most recent description of his clothing:
- Beanie-style winter hat, possibly gray
- Yellow winter jacket, possibly hi‑viz
- Black snow pants
- Dark blue winter boots
- Black-framed eyeglasses
Family photos shared on social media (last taken fall 2025) show his approximate appearance. Anyone who recognizes him or sees someone matching this description is urged to act immediately.
Dangerous Winter Weather Makes Search Urgent
Southcentral Alaska is under severe winter conditions. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for Wasilla and the Mat‑Su Valley, with 4–12 inches of snow expected and wind gusts up to 30 mph. Visibility is reduced due to blowing snow, and roads are slippery and hazardous. A Cold Weather Advisory warns that temperatures are well below zero, with wind chills capable of causing hypothermia in minutes. (NOAA)
Zakk is in immediate danger due to exposure. Every passing hour increases the risk posed by snow, ice, and extreme cold.
How the Community Can Help
Residents of Wasilla, Palmer, Big Lake, and surrounding areas are urged to:
- Check driveway and home security cameras
- Review dash cam footage
- Look along local roads, trails, and known hangouts where Zakk might be
If you have any information, call MATCOM dispatch at 907‑352‑5401. The case number is 26‑0060. 👉🏿 Sharing this alert widely is also critical.
Zakk’s family is desperate to hear from him. Sara implores: “C’mon bro, where you at? Damn this weather too.” The community’s eyes and ears are needed now more than ever. With winter storms approaching and life-threatening conditions, every moment counts.
