Alaska Comedy Club Owner Kills Ex-Father-in-Law, Dies by Suicide

Anchorage, AK – Mathew Thomas Becker, 61, a comedy club owner, fatally shot his former father-in-law, 87-year-old Romaine Clark, and attempted to murder his ex-wife before dying by suicide, according to Anchorage Police Department reports. The incidents unfolded on Saturday, March 14, 2026, leading to a weekend-long manhunt.

Timeline of Events

The series of events began shortly before 9:30 a.m. When Becker allegedly shot at his ex-wife outside her business on Cordova Street. She reported to police that she was unaware Becker was in Alaska and that he began firing multiple shots as she attempted to unlock the door to her hair salon. She hid and called 911, expressing concern for her father, Romaine Clark.

Police responded to Clark’s home on Alder Drive and discovered him dead with apparent gunshot wounds. Traffic cameras captured a Nissan Altima, believed to be driven by Becker, entering and leaving the neighborhood around the time of the shooting.

Manhunt and Discovery

The Anchorage Police Department initiated a manhunt for Becker, issuing a public warning that he should not be approached if spotted. Authorities located Becker’s body just before 10:30 a.m. On Sunday in a wooded area. The cause of his death is pending a medical examiner’s report.

Background and Charges

Initial charging documents indicated that an arrest warrant was requested for Becker on charges of first-degree attempted murder and third-degree assault. Reports suggest Becker was also facing a first-degree murder charge related to Clark’s death. Becker reportedly owned a comedy club and was, according to some reports, battling terminal cancer.

Investigation Ongoing

The Anchorage Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shootings. Investigators are working to determine a definitive motive and gather further evidence.

Key Takeaways

• Mathew Thomas Becker, 61, shot at his ex-wife and killed his former father-in-law, Romaine Clark, 87.
• The incidents occurred on March 14, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska.
• Becker died by suicide after a police manhunt.
• He was facing charges of attempted murder and, potentially, first-degree murder.