On the morning of Thursday, February 8, police responded to reports of a shooting in the Lents neighborhood in the southeast part of Portland.
According the Portland Police, “Officers determined the suspect was inside the home and they requested assistance from the Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT) and the Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) in order to safely take the suspect into custody. Officers went inside the home and located an adult female who was deceased. Homicide detectives responded to the scene and began their investigation. There is no ongoing threat to the community.”
On Friday, February 9, police revealed that the victim was 85-year-old Janette Becraft, who was married to William Albert Haynes III, known to pro wrestling fans as Billy Jack Haynes.
According to the medical examiner, Becraft died of homicide by gunshot wound.
Police have not released the name of anyone charged in the homicide, nor the names of anyone in custody.
Janette Becraft was the mother of Todd Allen Becraft, who was one of Haynes’ best friends, having met when Tod was nine years old. She also had a daughter, Kim Becraft Finlay, who posted to Facebook: “You are now flying with the Angels. They are lucky to have such a beautiful soul. Love you Mom”.
Another post on Facebook, by Sue Becraft (relation to the deceased unknown), demanded “Justice for Jan…”
After Tod and Kim’s father, Dwight Becraft, died in 2008, Haynes married Janette, who was born Janette Elaine McLean. She was 15 years Haynes’ senior.
Tod, who was briefly a pro wrestler under the name Todd Ruhl, loved working out and encouraging others.
His Facebook page shared moments of fun with Haynes.
Becraft worked in security, and died on November 14, 2021, of complications from COVID-19, one day short of his 59th birthday. A celebration of Becraft’s life was held at the Foster Fitness in Portland where he worked out.
According to a few sources, Janette Becraft, had been suffering from dementia.
TOP PHOTO: Billy Jack Haynes in his wrestling prime, left, Janette Becraft, right (courtesy the Becraft family via Portland Police).
RELATED LINKS
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https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2006/10/05/billy-jack-haynes-shoot-interview-compelling/
