Police say argument over mother led to Fairview fratricide

Charging documents say an argument between Harry Steward Jr. and his brother Robert Steward over the latter disrespecting their mother ended in murder Monday night.

According to a criminal complaint filed Wednesday, Anchorage Police responded to a residence on E. 20th Ave. after reports of a shooting shortly before 7:30 p.m. Monday. Officers found the victim, later identified as 33-year old Robert Steward in the apartment, and attempted life saving measures before he was declared deceased at the scene.

Interviews with family members who were in the residence at the time led police on a search for Steward's brother, 47-year old Harry Steward Jr., who turned himself in to the Anchorage Jail on Tuesday afternoon.

The charging document says the argument between the two brothers began after Robert Steward used foul language in front of their mother, prompting Harry to confront his brother. The two brothers began "'chipping' at each other," with the two separating and returning to continue the argument multiple times.

The mother separated the brothers again, bringing Robert into a bedroom to speak with him alone. At some point, Harry entered the bedroom, reigniting the argument. After the two began exchanging insults, Harry allegedly pulled out a gun and shot Robert in front of their mother.

Harry Steward Jr.'s arraignment on Wednesday was disrupted by several outbursts in the courtroom, both by Steward and friends or family members objecting to terms set by the judge prohibiting contact between Steward and family members, including his mother, who family members said he takes care of.

Steward is charged with 2nd degree murder.