Ex-WWE Star Billy Jack Haynes Charged with Wife’s Murder

Clear Facts

• Former WWE star William “Billy Jack” Haynes has been charged with second degree murder following the fatal shooting of his wife, Jannette Becraft, in their Portland, Oregon home.
• Police were called to Haynes’ residence on February 8 after reports of shots fired, leading to a two-hour standoff with Portland’s SWAT before Haynes was taken into custody.
• Haynes, a professional wrestler for 15 years, joined the WWE in 1986 and is expected to make his first court appearance on Thursday.

In a shocking turn of events, former WWE star William “Billy Jack” Haynes, 70, has been charged with second degree murder. The charges stem from the fatal shooting of his wife, Jannette Becraft, 85, inside their Portland, Oregon home, as reported by the Portland Police Bureau (PPB).

Prior to his arrest, Haynes was in a local area hospital for a condition unrelated to the shooting. He was later transferred and held at the Multnomah County Detention Center.

On February 8, police were called to Haynes’ home shortly after 9:50am. The call was in response to reports of shots fired in the neighborhood. A two-hour standoff with Portland’s SWAT ensued, eventually leading to Haynes’ arrest, as reported by the New York Post (NYP).

In a heartfelt tribute to her mother, Becraft’s daughter wrote on social media,
“You are now flying with the angels. They are lucky to have such a beautiful soul. Love you Mom.”

Interestingly, Haynes was childhood friends with Becraft’s son, Tod, and married her in 2022. Becraft was reportedly Haynes’ fourth wife.

Haynes’ wrestling career spanned 15 years, during which he appeared in a variety of circuits before joining the WWE in 1986. His most notable matches were reportedly against legends like Nature Boy Ric Flair and Randy Savage.

According to Fox 12, Haynes is expected to make his first appearance in court on Thursday.

Clear Thoughts (op-ed)

The shocking news of former WWE star William “Billy Jack” Haynes being charged with second degree murder forces us to confront the dark side of fame and the potentially destructive nature of professional wrestling.

While it is important to remember that Haynes is innocent until proven guilty, this tragic incident serves as a stark reminder that fame and fortune can sometimes lead to devastating consequences.

The two-hour standoff with Portland’s SWAT team paints a disturbing picture of a man who once entertained millions in the wrestling ring. It is a stark contrast to the heroic persona he once portrayed.

As we mourn the loss of Jannette Becraft, we must also take a moment to reflect on the impact of fame and the pressures faced by those in the public eye. Let this be a call for us to offer support and compassion to those who may be struggling, regardless of their celebrity status.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

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