'Juneau John Doe' Identified as Russian Archpriest

JUNEAU — On July 25, 2019, a body was discovered on a Juneau, Alaska beach near Echo Cove, later dubbed “Juneau John Doe.” After nearly six years, the remains were identified in 2025 as Archpriest Alexander Popov, a former cleric from St. Petersburg, Russia. 

The Juneau Police Department reported no signs of foul play, and the cause of death remains unclear. Popov, born July 5, 1961, was 58 at the time of his death. Ordained in 1990 and elevated to archpriest in 2005, he was released from duties in May 2019 before traveling to Alaska.

The Feodorovsky Imperial Cathedral announced his passing in March 2025, following identification through the US Interpol database. His remains are buried at Northern Lights Cemetery in Juneau. 

Dr. Scott Kenworthy, a professor who corresponded with Popov, noted his desire to “go off the grid,” using cash and a burner phone. Popov’s brother reported him missing, leading to Interpol’s involvement. 

The case was closed in March 2025, but many questions remain unanswered.

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