Alaska State Troopers say human remains discovered in Wasilla earlier this month have been identified as those of 18-year-old Ataja Banks.

Banks was first reported missing in November 2023. The Anchorage Police Department began the initial investigation, but the case was later turned over to Troopers after evidence showed she was last known to be alive in the Mat-Su Valley.

On September 4, 2025, Troopers located remains in the area of Moose Meadows Road in Wasilla. The State Medical Examiner has since confirmed the identity as Banks.

Investigators believe she was murdered. The Alaska Bureau of Investigation is continuing to look into the case. Banks’ family has been notified.

Anyone with information that could help in the investigation is encouraged to contact Alaska State Troopers.

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