Eugene Man Pleads Not Guilty in Wife’s Death
Gregory Allen Pitts, 55, faces charges of second-degree murder following the death of his 52-year-old wife.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Crime — General
Gregory Allen Pitts pleaded not guilty on October 16 to second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon. He was arrested on October 1 after Eugene police conducted a welfare check at a residence on Fox Hollow Drive.
Why it matters
The indictment filed by a Lane County grand jury follows the discovery of LeAnna Pitts, who was a director in the facilities department at the University of Oregon. Her death remains a subject of active legal proceedings.
Gregory Allen Pitts, age 55, faces charges of second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon. The legal process is currently moving through the Lane County court system following an indictment filed on October 15.
The players
Gregory Allen Pitts
He is a 55-year-old man currently charged with second-degree murder.
LeAnna Pitts
She was a 52-year-old professional who served as a director in the facilities department at the University of Oregon.
The details
Police discovered 52-year-old LeAnna Pitts dead during a welfare check on October 1. Gregory Allen Pitts was taken into custody at the University Fellowship Church after contacting his pastor for assistance.
Timeline
Sept. 30, 2026: The death of LeAnna Pitts occurred on or about this date.
Oct. 1, 2026: Eugene police conducted a welfare check and arrested Gregory Allen Pitts.
Oct. 15, 2026: The grand jury indictment was filed.
Oct. 16, 2026: The suspect entered a plea of not guilty.
Legal Context
This case proceeds under Oregon's mandatory sentencing guidelines for second-degree murder, which dictate specific judicial outcomes for such serious offenses. These legal frameworks are consistently applied by Lane County prosecutors in homicide cases.
The arrest occurred at a local house of worship, and the investigation involved a residential welfare check in the Eugene area. The ongoing trial may require further public awareness as court proceedings move forward.
The takeaway
Legal proceedings in Lane County involve established protocols for managing homicide indictments and suspect surrenders. The case highlights the importance of timely welfare checks in local residential neighborhoods.
Further reading
For more updates on local judicial proceedings, visit the Eugene Crime — General page.
