Valdez Police Department case remains active and ongoing.
VALDEZ, ALASKA (September 18, 2026) — The Valdez Police Department has arrested Jacquelyn Jeffery, 31, of Valdez, in connection with the death of Maria K. Varenhorst, 43, also of Valdez. Varenhorst died on September 9, 2026, while receiving medical treatment at Providence Valdez Medical Center after a reported assault. Her next of kin have been notified.
On September 18, 2026, Jeffery was arrested and booked at the Valdez Jail on one count of Manslaughter and one count of Criminally Negligent Homicide.
The State of Alaska Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an autopsy as part of the investigation. Results from the autopsy, along with other information gathered during the investigation, led to the charges filed against Jeffery in connection with Varenhorst’s death.
This case remains active and ongoing. The charges are allegations, and Jeffery is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Anyone with information about the reported assault or the circumstances surrounding Varenhorst’s death is encouraged to contact the Valdez Police Department at 907-835-4560 and reference case #26-3620.