85-Year-Old Idaho Mother Shoots and Kills Home Intruder in Justifiable Homicide

An 85-year-old woman from Idaho demonstrated a remarkable act of self-preservation when she confronted a home intruder in the early hours of March 13. The brave woman, Christine Jenneiahn, defended herself and her disabled son from the armed assailant in a harrowing ordeal.

The Terrifying Encounter

The intruder, identified as 39-year-old Derek Condon, forcibly entered Jenneiahn's home in the middle of the night, wielding a firearm and menacingly accosting her. After subduing her and demanding to know the location of valuables, Condon callously subjected Jenneiahn to a distressing ordeal by handcuffing her to a chair at gunpoint. He then proceeded to search the house for assets, placing the elderly woman in a state of extreme vulnerability.

The Courageous Response

In an astonishing act of bravery, Jenneiahn surreptitiously retrieved her 357 magnum revolver, concealed it nearby, and patiently waited for an opportunity to defend herself and her son.

The Harrowing Confrontation

After several hours of confinement, Jenneiahn found herself facing a critical decision. In a swift and determined action, she confronted Condon and fired two shots at the assailant. However, Condon retaliated by discharging a 9mm pistol, severely injuring Jenneiahn in the abdomen, leg, arm, and chest. This exchange of gunfire tragically resulted in Condon's demise in the kitchen of the residence.

The Hero's Endurance

Following the intense altercation, Jenneiahn remained restrained and wounded for approximately 10 hours before her son discovered her and sought help. Law enforcement officers arrived at the scene and provided crucial medical assistance, ultimately saving her life.

Law Enforcement's Discovery

Subsequent investigations at the scene unearthed evidence of Condon's forced entry, including a broken rear window and a screwdriver near the point of entry. His vehicle, located in close proximity, further corroborated his proximity to the crime scene. Additionally, the perpetrator was found to be in possession of stolen items, as well as tools associated with unlawful entry.

The Prosecutor's Verdict

Binham County Prosecuting Attorney Ryan Jolley hailed Jenneiahn's actions as an exemplar of justifiable homicide under the circumstances, lauding her unwavering determination and resilience. Moreover, Jolley affirmed that had Condon survived, he would have faced charges including attempted murder, kidnapping, burglary, aggravated battery, and grand theft, underscoring the severity of his criminal conduct.