What could have ended in tragedy at the Alaska State Fair turned into an act of heroism when a 24-year-old bystander leapt into action, disarming a man who pulled a gun during a sprawling brawl.
The melee erupted Monday night among a group of at least eight men, with families and children still streaming through the fairgrounds. When one of the fighters flashed a handgun and appeared to cock it, Jaden Perry rushed forward without hesitation.
"The first thought that went through my head is there are kids everywhere," Perry told KTUU. "I didn't think much during it, but afterwards I'm glad I did. I would do it again every time."
Viral video of the incident shows Perry grappling with the armed man while other fair staff and bystanders tried to break up the fight, shouting "Stop fighting!" and "Let it go!" Some combatants slipped on rain-slicked pavement as fists flew and chaos spread.
The Alaska State Fair praised Perry's bravery, calling his actions "heroic," and also commended the unarmed staff who risked themselves to calm the violence.
Perry said the moment was a stark reminder of how quickly violence can escalate in public spaces. "We're in an age where this is common. And it saddens me, it does… no matter what kind of gun control or gun laws are put out there, this will happen," he told KTUU.
The melee erupted Monday night among a group of at least eight men, with families and children still streaming through the fairgrounds. When one of the fighters flashed a handgun and appeared to cock it, Jaden Perry rushed forward without hesitation.
"The first thought that went through my head is there are kids everywhere," Perry told KTUU. "I didn't think much during it, but afterwards I'm glad I did. I would do it again every time."
🚨Breaking News
— Rants From Alaska (@AlaskanRants) September 2, 2025
Thanking Our Community Heroes at the Alaska State Fair
Yesterday at the Alaska State Fair, we were reminded of the power of community and vigilance. A good Samaritan stepped up, potentially preventing a dangerous situation from escalating.
While details are… pic.twitter.com/hMDKWpZFWs
Viral video of the incident shows Perry grappling with the armed man while other fair staff and bystanders tried to break up the fight, shouting "Stop fighting!" and "Let it go!" Some combatants slipped on rain-slicked pavement as fists flew and chaos spread.
The Alaska State Fair praised Perry's bravery, calling his actions "heroic," and also commended the unarmed staff who risked themselves to calm the violence.
Perry said the moment was a stark reminder of how quickly violence can escalate in public spaces. "We're in an age where this is common. And it saddens me, it does… no matter what kind of gun control or gun laws are put out there, this will happen," he told KTUU.
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