With his heart pounding and adrenaline surging, Owen took aim at the kidnapper and hit him straight between the eyes. Undeterred, he took another shot and struck the kidnapper in the chest. Owen’s bravery didn’t go unnoticed as the kidnapper, swearing and cussing, retreated.
This terrifying encounter took place at the Burns’ home in Alpena Township, Michigan, in broad daylight. Kidnappings were unheard of in their area, making this incident even more shocking. The Michigan State Police, who did not disclose the kidnapper’s identity, confirmed that he would be charged as an adult.
Lieutenant John Grimshaw, speaking at a press conference, referred to Owen’s actions as nothing short of extraordinary. He praised the young hero for saving his sister from potential harm. Owen’s quick thinking and courage deserve recognition and commendation.
What’s remarkable is that the slingshot Owen used was just an ordinary toy his mother had bought for $3 on clearance. Owen would often practice his aim in the yard, shooting at old orange juice cans. Little did he know that this innocent hobby would transform him into a real-life hero.
When Owen saw his sister being abducted, his mind raced with horrifying thoughts of what could happen to her. Grimshaw detailed the kidnapper’s approach, describing how he grabbed her from behind, covering her mouth and wrapping his arm around her waist, dragging her towards the woods.
But Owen’s instinct kicked in, and he took action. He fired his slingshot, hitting the kidnapper and allowing his sister to break free. She ran inside the house, crying and recounting how she had narrowly escaped a life-threatening situation. Owen, filled with anger, confronted the kidnapper, throwing a baseball but missing his target. Although his third slingshot attempt failed due to a broken rubber, his swift response had already saved the day.
The siblings immediately called their mother, who was away helping a relative, and informed her about the kidnapping attempt. Maggie, their mother, rushed home after hearing her children’s distressed voices on the phone. She couldn’t believe what she was hearing but soon realized that her son’s story was all too real.
The 17-year-old kidnapper was eventually apprehended at a nearby gas station. He now faces charges of attempted kidnapping, attempted felony assault, and misdemeanor assault and battery in the Alpena County District Court.
The police confirmed Owen’s heroic actions, citing the evident injuries the kidnapper sustained from the slingshot strikes. Maggie, initially skeptical of her son’s accuracy from such a distance, was stunned when she saw the growing bump on the suspect’s forehead. Owen’s words to his mother – “You said I always lie!” – carried a sense of vindication and truth. As Maggie reflected on the incident, she acknowledged that sometimes life imitates the movies.
This incredible story showcases the heroic efforts of a big brother who risked everything to protect his little sister. Let’s share this inspiring tale with our friends and family to spread the message of bravery and love.
