Christine Jenneiahn, an 85-year-old resident of Idaho, has been hailed as a hero after she bravely defended her home against a home invasion suspect in a dramatic shootout. Ms. Jenneiahn was asleep in her bedroom when Derek Condon, the intruder, forcibly entered her Bingham County property in the early hours of the morning.
Condon, disguised in military attire and armed, confronted Ms. Jenneiahn, who managed to retrieve her handgun from under her pillow. Despite being handcuffed and assaulted, she exhibited remarkable determination and concealed her firearm until she could act decisively.
When Condon threatened her and her disabled son, Ms. Jenneiahn made the courageous decision to engage him, ultimately fatally shooting him. Despite sustaining multiple gunshot wounds herself, she survived the ordeal.
Authorities found evidence linking Condon to the break-in, including stolen items from the residence. Bingham County Prosecutor Ryan Jolley commended Ms. Jenneiahn’s actions, emphasizing her extraordinary grit and will to survive. The incident has been ruled as “justifiable homicide,” acknowledging Ms. Jenneiahn’s actions as necessary for self-defense.
If Condon had survived, he would have faced serious charges including attempted murder, kidnapping, burglary, aggravated battery, and grand theft, according to Mr. Jolley. This case stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of Ms. Jenneiahn, who refused to be a victim in the face of danger.