An Alaska man shocked investigators with a disturbing crime story that unfolded across two states. What first appeared to be a case of illness and concern turned out to be something far more serious. Prosecutors say the accused not only killed his roommate but also tried to cover it up in a chilling way before committing another crime in a different state.
How the Case Began
Aaron Hague, a 37-year-old man from Alaska, was recently found guilty of manslaughter and other charges linked to the disappearance of his roommate, John McClelland, in 2020. This case is known as a “no body” homicide because McClelland’s body was never found, but strong evidence pointed towards his death.
The situation became suspicious when McClelland suddenly stopped going to work and lost contact with family. Around the same time, his brother Dan began receiving strange text messages. These messages claimed that McClelland was seriously ill and admitted to a hospital.
Fake Messages and Money Requests
The messages sent to Dan were alarming. They said McClelland needed urgent medical treatment and asked for more than $8,000 to cover expenses like rent, medical bills, and transmission repair. One message even asked Dan to call Hague, who claimed he was sitting beside McClelland during his final moments.
However, Dan found it strange that his brother was texting instead of calling while supposedly on his deathbed. This raised serious doubts. When Dan contacted hospitals and care centres in Fairbanks, none had any record of McClelland being admitted.
This led Dan to contact the Alaska State Troopers, which started a deeper investigation into the case.
Investigation Raises Red Flags
Authorities soon discovered several suspicious details. Hague told investigators that he had dropped McClelland at a medical facility, but police confirmed that never happened. He also claimed to have received similar text messages but said he lost the phone when asked to show proof.
Further investigation revealed that Hague had access to McClelland’s belongings and finances after he disappeared. He used McClelland’s debit card to spend nearly $3,000 and even filed for unemployment benefits in his name.
Confession and Court Verdict
During the trial, Hague admitted that McClelland was dead and that he was responsible. However, he claimed it happened in self-defense after an argument. The jury did not accept this explanation.
Instead of convicting him of first-degree murder, the jury found Hague guilty of manslaughter, theft, and tampering with evidence. He now faces up to 20 years in prison for manslaughter, along with additional time for the other charges.
Second Alleged Murder in Oregon
The case becomes even more shocking with events that followed. After leaving Alaska, Hague travelled to Oregon, where he allegedly committed another murder.
Prosecutors say he targeted a man named Anthony Alcorn, who he met at a homeless shelter in Anchorage. The two reportedly looked very similar, which became part of Hague’s plan.
Hague allegedly stole Alcorn’s identity and used it to travel. He then lured Alcorn to Oregon by promising him a good-paying job. Once there, prosecutors claim Hague killed him in the woods to fully take over his identity.
Just like in the Alaska case, Hague allegedly used the victim’s phone to send messages to family members, pretending to be alive.
What Happens Next
Hague is currently awaiting sentencing in Alaska, which is scheduled for August 11. After that, he will be sent to Oregon to face trial for the murder of Anthony Alcorn.
This case has shocked many due to its unusual and disturbing pattern. From fake hospital messages to identity theft and multiple crimes, it highlights how complex and chilling criminal cases can be.
