Three Arrested in Hood River Murder During Bike Theft

Stephen Hayes, 38, was killed in Hood River after confronting three suspects attempting to steal his bike, an incident that has led to murder and robbery charges against the accused. According to police and court documents, Hayes tried to stop the theft when the suspects, driving a stolen truck, ran him over as they fled the scene, resulting in his death at the intersection of Fifth and June Street. Johnathan Bradly Matthews, identified as the driver, was arrested in The Dalles and faces multiple charges including second-degree murder, while William Edward Hardy Jr. and Elizabeth June Bowman were also arrested and charged with murder and robbery. The suspects allegedly stole the truck earlier that day from a local contractor and were later identified through surveillance footage at a Walmart. The community is mourning Hayes' loss as legal proceedings continue, and all three suspects may face further indictments as the investigation proceeds. The case has highlighted both the risks of confronting theft and the community's desire for justice.