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In a tragic alleged accident, a young man shot and killed his girlfriend while “playing” with a gun, before he found another firearm and turned it on himself while their friend was speaking to a 911 call handler.
Just days before they planned to get engaged, Landon Lowrance, 22, killed CloeRae McBrayer, 21, who was studying to become a teacher.
In a statement from the Fairbanks Police Department, officials confirmed that Lowrance “shot McBrayer with a revolver while playing with the gun and pointing it at her.”
Reportedly, the young couple’s friend called 911 immediately and stayed on the phone while “a disturbance could be heard in the background.
According to cops, the friend, who has not been publicly named, “attempted to physically intervene when Lowrance obtained another firearm and shot himself.”
By the time emergency services arrived, McBrayer was already deceased. “Critically injured,” Lowrance was rushed to Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, where he died shortly after arrival.
Police have said that the caller “was interviewed by detectives and is not believed to have been involved in the shootings.”
Fairbanks Police also added: “This incident is a tragic and preventable loss of life,” while urging “everyone to practise firearm safety at all times.”
In a heartbreaking social media post by Lowrance’s brother, his family paid tribute to the young man who was considered to be well trained in firearm safety.
The statement reads: “Landon’s story is a heartbreaking reminder that gun safety must never be taken for granted.
"Landon was raised in a family where firearm safety was taught from an early age. He took gun safety courses as a child, joined the military after graduation, and received additional firearms training. Despite being well-trained, complacency tragically entered the picture, and CloeRae’s life was taken.
"During the 911 call, Landon became overwhelmed with grief and heartbreak over what had happened and took his own life. Anyone who knew Landon knows that he had one of the biggest, kindest, and most caring hearts.
“This tragedy does not erase the person he was, but it is a devastating reminder of how quickly one moment of complacency can change multiple lives forever.
“Please keep both families in your prayers during this unimaginable time. Please also remember Landon’s roommate, who was present when this tragedy occurred.
“We ask for prayers, compassion, and privacy for everyone affected as our families try to navigate this heartbreaking loss.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
