11/9/09

By Rachel Azevedo

Richard Breneman is arraigned in Crook County Court Monday for the murder of his roommate, 54 year old Voy 'Doug' Powell. Prineville Police say Breneman, 69, shot Powell Friday night, then surrendered after a three hour standoff. During that time, neighbors were evacuated to Crook County High School. Powell was found dead inside this mobile home off Combs Flat Road.

"At first I thought I was hearing things, but then I heard a cop come to the door and he said we had to evacuate. So then I started to freak out," said Theresa Handy.

Friday wasn't the first time Breneman allegedly hurt Powell. The suspect is charged with assault in the fourth degree, strangulation and harassment in a pending case stemming from an October 7th incident. Neighbors say they heard the two arguing often, but are surprised it resulted in murder.

"I didn't think it would come to that. I just thought it would be a big blow up and one of them would leave. I thought Doug would leave there," said Richard Forrest.

Breneman and the victim had only been living here a short time. Before that, they were neighbors at another mobile home park for about a year. Powell moved in with Breneman after his home burned down in July.

"They had a relationship that was sometimes contensious, but otherwise, they were friends," said Prineville Police Captain, Michael Boyd.

Police are still investigating whether intoxication had anything to do with the shooting. If convicted, Breneman could serve a minimum of 25 years in prison without the possibility of parole.