3 indicted on murder charges in Hood River deadly bike theft

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Officials say the three suspects who were arrested last weekend after a bike theft turned fatal in Hood River are now facing murder charges.

According to the Hood River County District Attorney's Office, a grand jury indicted 31-year-old Johnathan Matthews, 36-year-old William Hardy, Jr. and 41-year-old Elizabeth Bowman on charges of second-degree murder, first-degree robbery, first-degree theft and unauthorized use of a vehicle.

Matthews is also facing charges of first-degree manslaughter, reckless driving and reckless endangering.

Hayes was hit and “mortally injured” on April 11, when police say he confronted the thieves for stealing a bike in his car. As they attempted to drive away with his bike in a stolen pickup, police said Hayes grabbed onto the passenger side of the truck.

The truck then "sped and swerved, dragging Stephen, throwing him to the ground, and running him over," according to Hood River County DA Matt Ellis.

Hayes was later found on the road near Fifth and June Street, according to investigators. Despite efforts to save him, court documents said he died at the scene.

Hayes, 38, was a bartender and server at Solstice Woodfire Pizza in Hood River, which was closed Monday to mourn his sudden death.

Hardy -- who court documents said is homeless and has general delivery to The Dalles -- and Bowman, a Hood River resident, were arrested on April 12.

After first being named a person of interest, authorities said Matthews was arrested in The Dalles two days later.

The Hood River DA's Office says all three are being held in custody and scheduled for arraignment the week of April 21.