A resilient Colorado mother who had overcome cancer multiple times lost her life in a devastating incident when a stray bullet entered her home on April 28.
Jennifer James, 49, described by family members as “the epitome of sunshine” and “an incredible human being loved by so many,” was inside her Berthoud residence near Denver while reportedly facing yet another cancer battle when the incident occurred at approximately 11:20 p.m.
According to reports, a projectile penetrated her window, striking her upper arm before continuing into her chest cavity. Emergency dispatchers were informed that she collapsed and stopped breathing following the impact. Despite swift response from emergency personnel, medical intervention proved unsuccessful, and James was pronounced deceased at the location.
The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation that led to the apprehension of 20-year-old Ebenezer Worku. Authorities identified Worku through security footage showing a Nissan Rogue outside James’ residence at 11:18 p.m. The vehicle lingered briefly before its headlights extinguished and it departed the area.
Two days following the incident, Worku was involved in a traffic collision on Interstate 25 near Greenwood Village. Body camera footage from the responding Greenwood Village Police Department commander revealed Worku wearing a handgun holster beneath his jacket.
Law enforcement discovered a Glock 22 .40 caliber handgun with extended magazine capacity during a subsequent vehicle search. After waiving his Miranda protections, Worku was transported to sheriff’s headquarters for questioning.
During his interview, as documented in an arrest affidavit referenced by local media, Worku discussed mental health challenges, claiming to suffer from what he termed “homicidal schizophrenia” and describing auditory hallucinations instructing him to harm others.
Worku stated he had received the Glock 22 as a birthday gift from an “adopted uncle” and had previously only used it at shooting ranges. When questioned specifically about the night in question, he reportedly admitted to discharging the weapon.
According to the affidavit, Worku claimed he was attempting to clean the firearm when he “accidentally” fired through the driver’s window due to unfamiliarity with the weapon. A second discharge allegedly occurred while attempting to clear the chamber, though he purportedly told investigators he believed the bullets would impact a wall.
Though Worku indicated to authorities he didn’t think he had struck anyone, he reportedly acknowledged becoming frightened and fleeing the scene.
Following his statement, Worku was arrested on first-degree murder charges and placed in Larimer County Jail with bond set at $1.25 million cash-only.
In response to this tragedy, James’ community has established a fundraising campaign to support her four children, who are now without parents.
“Anyone who knew her thought of her as the nicest person they had known,” reads the campaign description. “She leaves behind four children without any parents. They are going to be dealing with extensive expenses. If you can help, even $1 will make a difference.”