Former Professional Wrestler Billy Jack Haynes Arrested on Suspicion of Murder in Portland

Portland, Oregon – Former professional wrestler Billy Jack Haynes, whose real name is William Albert Haynes, was arrested on Friday on suspicion of murder in the shooting death of his wife, Janette Becraft, in a Portland neighborhood. The 70-year-old Haynes, known for his wrestling career from 1982 to 1986 in Florida, the Pacific Northwest, and the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), allegedly killed his wife on Thursday before engaging in an hourslong standoff with the police.

Standoff with Police in Lents Neighborhood

The incident took place in the Lents neighborhood of Portland. Portland police responded to a residence on SE 100th Avenue after receiving a call at 9:52 a.m. PST. Upon arrival, officers discovered that the suspect, later identified as Haynes, was inside the home. They requested assistance from the Special Emergency Reaction Team and Crisis Negotiation Team.

Surrender and Custody

After an hourslong standoff, Haynes eventually surrendered to the authorities. He is currently in police custody at an area hospital for a medical condition unrelated to the shooting. Once released from the hospital, Haynes will be booked into jail and formally charged with the murder of his wife.

Wrestling Career and Allegations Against WWE

During his wrestling career, Haynes adopted the persona of “Billy Jack” and became known for wearing a signature hat, inspired by the 1971 movie of the same name. He wrestled as a “babyface” in Florida and the Pacific Northwest before turning “heel” in 1990 and feuding with several wrestlers.

Haynes competed at WrestleMania III on March 29, 1987, at the Pontiac Silverdome. His Full Nelson Challenge Match against Hercules Hernandez ended in a double countout. After retiring from the ring, Haynes opened a gym and a regional wrestling promotion in the Portland area. In 2014, he filed a class-action lawsuit against the WWE, alleging that the wrestling company failed to protect and educate its wrestlers about serious head injuries. However, the lawsuit was ultimately unsuccessful.

Final Words

Billy Jack Haynes, the former professional wrestler, is facing serious charges after the shooting death of his wife in Portland. The incident has left the wrestling community and fans in shock. As the legal process unfolds, more details will likely emerge about the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

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