Fairbanks, Alaska—A Fort Wainwright soldier found himself facing multiple charges after a shooting incident at a local bar resulted in judicial action on Thursday. The Fairbanks jury delivered mixed verdicts, reflecting the complex nuances of the case involving acts of violence and impaired judgment.
Travis Austin, aged 33, faced serious allegations following his involvement in an altercation that escalated dramatically at The International Hotel and Bar, commonly referred to as The Big I, on April 30, 2022. Austin was acquitted of two counts of felony attempted murder, among other charges, but was found guilty of second-degree weapons misconduct, third-degree assault on two counts, third-degree criminal mischief, and driving under the influence—a misdemeanor.
The trial, which spanned seven days, saw a range of testimonies from law enforcement officials, victims, witnesses, a crime lab employee, a forensic psychologist, and Austin himself. The proceedings painted a detailed picture of the events leading up to and following the shooting.
The altercation began inside the bar where Austin, who had arrived with three colleagues, encountered Diamond Burzynski and her boyfriend Tyree Bowie. A fight ensued that eventually spilled into the parking lot. In a tense confrontation, Austin testified that he feared for his life after Bowie allegedly threatened him, which led Austin to discharge his firearm multiple times as he retreated.
The severity of the scene was underscored by the proximity of multiple buildings, including local government and media offices, raising the stakes of the gunfire exchange. Burzynski’s vehicle sustained significant damage from the bullets, with repair costs reportedly amounting to $6,000.
Further complicating Austin’s defense, he was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in 2023, which his legal representation suggested might have affected his perception of the threat during the incident. A forensic psychologist supported this claim, stating that PTSD could alter an individual’s response to perceived threats.
Following the incident, police officers, who were in the vicinity, responded to the sound of gunfire. They conducted field sobriety tests on Austin, who reportedly failed two out of three and recorded a breath-alcohol content of 0.085.
As Austin awaits sentencing scheduled for December 10 at the Rabinowitz Courthouse in Fairbanks, the case reflects broader issues relating to mental health, substance use, and safety in public spaces. This case not only impacts the individuals directly involved but also prompts a community-wide reflection on violence, responsibility, and legal justice in situations complicated by factors such as self-defense and mental health.