HOOD RIVER, Ore. — Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the death of Stephen M. Hayes, a 38-year-old Hood River resident, who was killed after confronting individuals allegedly trying to steal from his car.
The incident occurred on April 11, near 5th Street and June Street, when Hayes reportedly noticed someone attempting to take items from his vehicle. According to the Hood River Police Department, a confrontation ensued, during which Hayes was struck by a white extended cab truck as the suspect attempted to flee the scene.
Emergency responders arrived just before 4 p.m. and found Hayes unresponsive in the roadway. Despite life-saving efforts by the Hood River Fire Department, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following a swift investigation, police arrested William Edward Hardy Jr., 36, and Elizabeth June Bowman, 41, on April 12. Both suspects were booked into NORCOR and face the following charges:
Second-degree manslaughter
First-degree robbery
First-degree theft
Unauthorized use of a motor vehicle
The case is being investigated with support from the Columbia Gorge Major Crimes Team, which includes personnel from the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office, The Dalles Police Department, Wasco County Sheriff’s Office, and Oregon State Police.
Authorities have confirmed there are no additional suspects at this time.
Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact Detective Erin Mason at the Hood River Police Department by phone at 541-387-5257 or email at e.mason@cityofhoodriver.gov.
The investigation remains ongoing.
