Monday, May 6, 2024
Mess around and find out
Christine Jenneiahn, an 85-year-old woman from Idaho, displayed extraordinary courage and resilience when she thwarted a home invasion by shooting and mortally wounding the intruder. The incident occurred on March 13th, when Jenneiahn woke up to find a man wearing a black ski mask and military-style jacket standing over her with a gun and flashlight. Identified as 39-year-old Derek Condon, the intruder pistol-whipped Jenneiahn, handcuffed her to a chair, and demanded information about valuables in her home.
Despite being shackled, Jenneiahn managed to retrieve a hidden revolver and concealed it under a couch cushion. When Condon threatened her life upon discovering her disabled son, David, elsewhere in the house, Jenneiahn seized the opportunity to defend herself. She fired the .357 magnum at Condon, striking him twice, while enduring multiple gunshot wounds herself.
In a statement, Bingham County District Attorney Ryan Jolley hailed Jenneiahn’s actions as “one of the most heroic acts of self-preservation I have heard of,” deeming the case an evident instance of self-defense and justifiable homicide. Following the exchange of gunfire, Condon succumbed to his injuries in Jenneiahn’s kitchen, while she lay bleeding on the living room floor for approximately 10 hours before receiving assistance.
Law enforcement found Condon’s vehicle nearby, containing incriminating evidence such as a lockpick set, stolen items from Jenneiahn’s home, and handcuffs. According to Jolley, Condon had prior acquaintance with Jenneiahn through a pawn shop and a gun range, and despite his military background, he had encountered recent difficulties.
Had Condon survived, he would have faced charges including felony attempted murder, kidnapping, aggravated battery, and grand theft. The Bingham County Sheriff’s Office reiterated Jolley’s statement on social media, commending Jenneiahn’s remarkable resilience and determination to survive the harrowing ordeal.
Christine Jenneiahn’s unwavering courage serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity, inspiring admiration and gratitude from her community.