Neighbors claim their community is still safe following homicide

Murphy, Ore. — Neighbors of a Murphy man who was murdered on Friday are expressing shock that such a horrible crime could happen in their community. However, while they call the crime unsettling, they still consider their neighborhood to be safe.

“Riding the quads, the peacefulness, the whole different ball game when it comes to people from California, to Oregon people, this is, oh man! I can’t believe how nice people are up here,” said Paul, who did not want to reveal his last name.

Paul lives just outside of Murphy; he retired three years ago, and moved out here for the peace and quiet.

“This is my little utopia here.”

That utopia was shaken on Friday night, when Oregon State Police responded to Paul’s closest neighbors home on Southside road. When they arrived, they found Jerald Wesley Eigenbrod, 78, dead inside.

While the details of his death have not been released, police say he was murdered.

“It’s just a shame, and I feel sorry for the people of the family that’s still, is you know, left behind, no killing is — there’s no reason for it at all,” Paul said.

The Josephine County Major Crime Response Team activated. Police arrested Duane Eugene Bond, 31, on Saturday.

According to the Oregonian, Bond has a criminal record that includes felony convictions for assault, burglary, robbery, and drug- related charges. Now he is facing one count of murder, as well as other charges, including attempt to elude a police officer, hit and run, and criminal mischief. Bond is lodged in the Josephine County Jail, without bail.

But that won’t change how Paul views his neighborhood

“You can’t live being afraid.”