January 2025 murder trial set for Bend man accused in fatal stabbing of his mother

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – A judge on Monday scheduled a two-week murder trial to begin Jan. 28, 2025 for Theodore John Wayne Bowser, 37, accused of fatally stabbing his mother last December during a domestic dispute at the southeast Bend home they shared with his brother, whom he also allegedly attacked for trying to stop him.

Deschutes County Circuit Judge Alycia Herriott entered not-guilty pleas on Bowser’s behalf to the felony second-degree murder and third-degree assault and misdemeanor fourth-degree assault charges facing Bowser, who said little during the brief hearing.

Deputy District Attorney Aaron Breneman and defense attorney Kat Griffiths worked out a schedule for the case with Herriott that also includes a June 10 status hearing to discuss scheduling and motion deadlines and a Jan. 21 trial readiness hearing that also will address whether Bowser must wear restraints in the courtroom during the jury trial.

Bowser was arrested the day after Christmas in the stabbing death of his mother, Rene Lynn Felker, 60, and assault of his half-brother, Taylor Bowser, also 37, whom he allegedly punched in the face and cut on his right hand when Taylor attempted to stop the stabbing and called authorities..