Troopers identify human remains found in Sterling

Alaska State Troopers have identified the human remains found by hikers in Sterling last week as those of Brian Sponsel, a 33-year-old Sterling man who died nearly two years ago.

Sponsel's body, which was found in an advanced stage of decomposition May 8, was taken to the state Medical Examiner's office where an autopsy was performed.

Troopers reportedly found a plastic bag containing Sponsel's identification and a suicide note near the body. The date of his death was Aug. 11, 2003.

According to a trooper statement, the man was tentatively identified May 10, but troopers were unable to contact next of kin to make notification until now.

A memorial service has been scheduled for 3 p.m. Wednesday at the Sterling Senior Center.