TWIN FALLS, Idaho – The Idaho State Police are currently investigating a string of homicides that occurred in connection with the escape of an inmate and his suspected accomplice on Thursday. The two individuals in question, Skylar Meade and Nicholas Umphenour, managed to escape from a hospital in Boise after assaulting officers and stealing a Honda Civic.
It is believed that the fugitives encountered 83-year-old James L. Mauney in Juliaetta, ID, who had been reported missing after taking his dogs for a walk and failing to return home. Tragically, Mauney and his dogs were taken by the suspects and driven to a remote area near Leland, where authorities later discovered Mauney’s body near the abandoned Honda Civic.
Further investigations revealed another homicide of 72-year-old Gerald “Don” Henderson at his residence in Orofino. Evidence found at Henderson’s home, including Mauney’s dogs and what is believed to be Meade’s handcuffs, suggests a potential connection between the suspects and the victim.
Law enforcement efforts, aided by leads and tips, led to the discovery of a stolen Chrysler Pacifica at a residence in Filer, where both Meade and Umphenour were eventually apprehended. Following their arrests, Tonia Huber was also taken into custody for her involvement in aiding Meade in fleeing the scene and was subsequently booked into the Twin Falls County Jail.
The circumstances surrounding the deaths of Mauney and Henderson are still under investigation, as authorities work to uncover any potential motives or connections between the suspects and the victims. All three individuals appeared in court on Friday to have their bonds set, with Meade and Umphenour being held on a $2 million bond each, and Huber on a $500,000 bond.
The successful apprehension of the suspects without any exchange of gunfire ensures the safety of the community and brings some closure to the families of the victims involved in this tragic series of events. The diligent efforts of law enforcement in tracking down and apprehending the fugitives demonstrate the commitment to justice and public safety in the state of Idaho.