Two Arrested in Hood River Man's Fatal Confrontation

Stephen M. Hayes, 38, was fatally struck by a vehicle after confronting suspects stealing from his car in Hood River, Oregon. The incident occurred on April 11 near Fifth and June Streets, where Hayes was hit by a white extended cab truck driven by one of the suspects fleeing the scene. Despite emergency responders' efforts, Hayes was pronounced dead at the scene. Following the incident, police arrested William Edward Hardy Jr., 36, and Elizabeth June Bowman, 41, on charges including second-degree manslaughter, first-degree robbery, and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. The Hood River Police Department, assisted by the Columbia Gorge Major Crimes Team, is investigating further but currently does not seek additional suspects. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Erin Mason at the Hood River Police Department.