Former Professional Wrestler Billy Jack Haynes Arrested for Suspected Murder of Wife in Portland Standoff

Former professional wrestler William Albert “Billy Jack” Haynes, known for his time in the World Wrestling Federation and Wrestlemania III, was arrested on February 9 in Portland on suspicion of murdering his wife, Janette Becraft, following an hourslong standoff with police in the Lents neighborhood.

The 70-year-old Haynes, a Portland native, rose to fame in the mid-1980s before retiring in the early 1990s. He later returned to Portland where he operated a gym and a regional wrestling promotion. Haynes had previously raised concerns about the impact of injuries sustained during his wrestling career.

According to Portland Police, Haynes is currently in custody at a local hospital due to a separate medical condition. Following his release, which could take several days, he is expected to be transferred to jail to face formal charges related to the alleged murder of his wife.

The authorities identified the victim, 85-year-old Janette Becraft, who was found deceased in a home on SE 100th Avenue after officers responded to reports of a shooting on February 8. The incident prompted a large police presence in the area, with Haynes eventually surrendering to law enforcement.

The case is being investigated by Detective Ryan Foote and Detective Travis Law, with anyone having information urged to contact the respective detectives referencing case number 24-31552. The incident has garnered attention from local media outlets such as Willamette Week and KATU.