How a stolen phone led to a murder trial for deaths of 2 Alaska Native women

A double murder trial is underway in Anchorage for the killing of two Alaska Native women.

A double murder trial is underway in Anchorage for the killing of two Alaska Native women.

Graphic video and photographs of a hotel-room assault found on a memory card turned over to police in 2019 helped lead investigators to the remains of one of the victims and a suspect in her murder, authorities said.

Brian Steven Smith, 52, was arrested in connection with the death of 30-year-old Kathleen Henry, the victim depicted in the photos and video, in October 2019, police said. Amid that investigation, he was arrested in the killing of Veronica Abouchuk, 52, days later.

Smith faces 14 charges, including first- and second-degree murder and tampering with evidence, in their deaths. He has pleaded not guilty.

Here's what to know about the case amid the ongoing trial.