Man arrested for attempted murder, shooting dog

By Terry Murry on Wednesday, February 10th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

HERMISTON – Howard Oliver Califf, 46, of Hermiston was arrested by Hermiston police officers this morning (Wednesday) after he forced his way into a home on the 250 block of East Gladys Avenue and fired a gun several times.

Hermiston Police Chief Jason Edmiston said the shots were fired first to gain entry and then at a 47-year-old relative of the residents who was there performing repairs. The victim’s dog tried to protect its owner and was shot several times, suffering superficial wounds. The dog is expected to recover.

HPD said that Califf used to live at the home, but a court order was issued in December 2020 restraining him from visiting the residence.

“It is our belief based on statements and evidence collected, Mr. Califf was on a mission to cause incredible harm to all tenants of the house,” Edmiston wrote in a prepared statement. “Fortunately, the tenants were not home, and the protective actions of the dog coupled with quick decisions by the victim along with a city of Hermiston employee, who happened to be in the area at the time, thwarted the plan.”

Califf is lodged in Umatilla County Jail on numerous charges including attempted murder, first-degree animal abuse, unlawful use of a weapon, and first-degree burglary. Preliminary bond is set at $340,000. The investigation is still active and HPD is consulting with the Umatilla County District Attorney’s Office at this time.

Edmiston said that HPD has answered several calls for service at the residence over the last five years, but nothing this significant. He added that while Califf is from the area, he has had limited contact with law enforcement.