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Prioritize Your Well-Being With These Self-Care Tips
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Why Social Media Restraint Is Key for Divorcees
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Discover the Healing Wonders of Hot Springs
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Cracking California’s Divorce Code
Craveable Carrot Cake
Teen Hero Saved His Sister With a Slingshot
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SLINGING JUSTICE
How a 13-Year-Old Stopped a Kidnapper
In the quiet city of Alpena, Michigan, a young hero emerged on a sunny May afternoon. Owen Burns, a 13-year-old with remarkable courage, became the talk of the town after he used a slingshot to save his 8-year- old sister from a suspected kidnapping. Owen’s sister was in their backyard when a man emerged from the nearby woods. The man approached the little girl, covered her mouth, and held her tightly to his chest. He didn’t know that Owen was watching and ready to act in his sister’s defense.
a state of panic and screaming, and she was crying, and the only word I could make out of the whole conversation was ‘kidnap.’”
Owen’s heroic actions were crucial in bringing the suspect to justice. Lt. John Grimshaw, Alpena post commander, commended Owen, stating, “What he did helped us identify who the suspect was because, obviously,
he had injuries from getting hit with a slingshot. To see that and pop into action that quickly is extraordinary, and he should be commended for it.”
The suspect, a 17-year-old from Alpena, was eventually located by state troopers, thanks in part to the slingshot injuries. He now faces charges of attempted kidnapping, assault, and battery. He was charged as an adult due to the severity of his actions. Owen’s bravery left his parents feeling “extremely proud and forever grateful.” Andrew Burns reflected on the gravity of the situation, saying, “Once it all set in, it kind of hit pretty hard because it could have been a whole different outcome.”
Owen recounted the chilling moment, saying, “Her mouth was closed, and he was hugging her on his chest. My sister kicked him, and then he started running after her.” Owen didn’t hesitate; he sprang into action with his slingshot.
Owen loaded marbles and rocks into his slingshot and aimed at the assailant. He fired three precise shots, hitting the suspect in the head and chest, causing the assailant to flee the scene.
The shock of the incident left Owen’s parents, Andrew and Margaret Burns, in disbelief. Margaret recalled the chaotic scene, saying, “They were in
Owen made it clear that he would not hesitate to protect his sister again, saying, “If it does happen again, I’ll do it again.”
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