Northern Michigan, USA – A story that began as a shining example of bravery and quick thinking has taken a dramatic and unexpected turn. Owen Burns, a 13-year-old boy who became a national hero after using his slingshot to stop a suspected kidnapper from abducting his 8-year-old sister, is now facing a stunning $800,000 lawsuit.
The case has shocked both the local community and the wider public, raising serious questions about self-defense, juvenile heroism, and the legal consequences that can follow life-saving actions.
A Quiet Afternoon Shattered by a Scream
It was a calm afternoon in Owen’s hometown in northern Michigan, where the family lives near a wooded area. Owen was in his bedroom, relaxing, when suddenly he heard a bloodcurdling scream from outside.
Rushing to his window, he saw a terrifying scene: a man emerging from the trees, grabbing his younger sister and attempting to drag her away toward the woods.
Without a second of hesitation, Owen reached for an old slingshot he kept near his bed. Though he rarely practiced with it, in that critical moment his instincts and aim were spot-on.
“I saw him grab her and start pulling,” Owen recalled in an interview. “I grabbed my slingshot, picked up a rock, aimed, and fired. I hit him in the head. Then I loaded a marble and hit him in the chest. I just wanted to stop him.”
The suspect, later identified as a 17-year-old male, stumbled after being struck. Owen’s sister kicked and screamed, managing to free herself as the attacker momentarily faltered. Owen fired again from his bedroom window, landing another direct hit. The attacker then turned and fled back toward the forest.
Swift Police Response and Praise
Owen’s mother was driving home from work when she received a frantic call from her children.
“I heard my kids crying and screaming on the phone,” she said. “The only word I could make out was ‘kidnapped.’ I felt my heart drop.”
Police quickly arrived and launched a search of the area. The suspect, with visible injuries to his head and chest, was found shortly afterward at a nearby gas station.
“The young boy’s actions were absolutely critical in helping us identify the suspect,” said Lt. John Grimshaw of the Michigan State Police. “The injuries from the slingshot were clearly visible, and his quick thinking stopped a dangerous situation from becoming a tragedy. It’s extraordinary.”
The suspect was arrested and charged with attempted kidnapping, among other offenses. Owen received widespread praise from law enforcement, local officials, and national media outlets, who described his actions as heroic, courageous, and decisive.
From Hero to Defendant: The Lawsuit
However, months after the incident, the situation took an unexpected legal twist. Reports surfaced that the suspect’s family has filed a lawsuit against Owen’s family for $800,000, claiming emotional trauma and physical injury resulting from the slingshot attack.
The legal claim argues that Owen’s response was “excessive” and caused “permanent emotional and physical damage” to the 17-year-old suspect.
Legal experts are divided on the case. Some argue that Owen’s actions clearly fall under self-defense and defense of others, while others say the unusual nature of a juvenile injuring another minor could raise complex legal questions.
Community Rallies Behind Owen
The Burns family has received overwhelming support from neighbors, local residents, and strangers across the country. Several community organizations have organized fundraisers to help with mounting legal costs. Social media campaigns have also gone viral, with hashtags like #StandWithOwen and #HeroNotDefendant trending online.
Local residents have described Owen as a quiet, humble, and kind boy who acted purely out of love for his sister. Many have expressed outrage that his bravery has led to legal action instead of continued recognition.
“He saved his sister’s life. He’s a hero, plain and simple,” said one neighbor during a community meeting. “The idea that he’s being sued is beyond belief.”
Owen’s Unshakable Resolve
Despite the stress of the legal situation, Owen remains calm and determined. When asked if he would do the same thing again, his answer was immediate:
“If it happens again, I’ll do it again,” he said firmly. “I’d do anything to protect my sister.”
His story has become a focal point in national discussions about juvenile acts of defense, liability laws, and how society should treat young people who take courageous actions in life-threatening situations.
A Legal Battle with National Implications
While Owen’s case is still ongoing, legal experts believe the outcome could set a precedent for similar incidents in the future. If the lawsuit moves forward, it may test the boundaries between self-defense, defense of others, and the rights of minors in both roles.
For now, the Burns family is focused on their legal defense while remaining grateful for the outpouring of public support. Owen, meanwhile, continues to live his life as a typical 13-year-old — with one major difference: he’s a reluctant hero caught in the middle of a legal firestorm.
