Inside Tia Hernlen’s Terrifying 911 Call — The Case That Shocked Everyone

In March 2005, a heartbreaking story came out of Florida that shocked people across the country. A brave 5-year-old girl named Tia Hernlen made a 911 call after waking up to find her parents injured and bleeding in their home. This tragic event not only showed Tia’s strength but also revealed how quickly lives can change due to violence and misunderstandings.

The Early Morning 911 Call

On the early morning of March 28, 2005, Tia Hernlen was awakened by the sound of gunshots. As she got up to check on her parents, she discovered a horrifying scene. Her mother, Julie Hernlen, was lying motionless, while her father, Aeneas Hernlen, was badly wounded but still alive. Scared and confused, Tia did something extraordinary for a child her age. She picked up the phone and called 911.

The call was answered by dispatcher Donna Choufani. What followed was a calm and clear conversation that lasted about three minutes. Despite the terrifying situation, Tia stayed composed. She told the dispatcher her name, her age, and details about her house. She explained that her parents were lying on the floor with blood around them. The dispatcher worked to keep Tia calm while quickly sending police officers to the home.

During the call, Tia told the operator that there was blood on a plant and the floor, but not everywhere. She mentioned hearing a gunshot and even noticed a bullet on the floor. The conversation also revealed small details about her life, such as having a black Labrador named Lizzah and three cats. Tia also described her house as yellow with some green and a pink door, and she identified the family’s cars parked outside.

The Scene Officers Found

When the police arrived at the Hernlen home, they found a tragic scene. Julie Hernlen, 31, was already dead. Her husband, Aeneas Hernlen, 29, was barely clinging to life and was rushed to a hospital in Daytona Beach. Sadly, Aeneas passed away the following day due to his injuries. Fortunately, Tia was unharmed physically and was soon placed in the care of her extended family.

The investigation quickly turned to finding out who was responsible for the attack and why it happened. The story behind the crime was both shocking and deeply upsetting.

The Attacker and His Motive

The man responsible for the attack was identified as 33-year-old David Edward Johnson. Johnson wrongly believed that Julie and Aeneas Hernlen had reported him to the police for growing marijuana and possessing steroids. Because of this belief, Johnson became angry and convinced himself that the Hernlens were the reason for his legal troubles. In reality, the Hernlens were not involved in reporting him to law enforcement.

Johnson’s anger grew over time. In January, the Hernlens tried to get a restraining order against him because he had driven by their home and made threats. However, their request for an injunction was denied by a judge who stated there was not enough evidence of violence or stalking to support the order.

Early on March 28, 2005, Johnson broke into the Hernlen home and shot both Julie and Aeneas while they slept. After carrying out the attack, Johnson returned to his own home and took his own life later that day. Authorities found no suicide note at his home.

Reactions From Authorities

Volusia County Sheriff Ben Johnson spoke publicly about the tragedy. He praised Tia’s courage and ability to remain calm during the 911 call. He described the 911 recording as amazing, noting how clearly Tia was able to explain her situation and provide important information, even though she was only five years old.

Sheriff Johnson also discussed the limits of the legal system when it comes to restraining orders. He explained that while the Hernlens had tried to seek protection, the judge could not grant an injunction without stronger evidence of violence or stalking. The sheriff admitted that it can be very difficult to stop someone who is determined to carry out such a crime, especially when they are not yet in jail.

The judge who denied the restraining order, Circuit Judge Richard Graham, later expressed regret about the decision. He stated that, looking back, he wished he had handled the case differently, but explained that judges must make decisions based on the evidence available at the time.

Tia’s Life After the Incident

After the tragedy, Tia Hernlen was placed with her extended family members, who took care of her following the loss of her parents. Sheriff Johnson mentioned that Tia was doing well, considering the terrible experience she had gone through. However, he also expressed concern for her long-term emotional well-being, explaining that young children do not always fully understand the meaning of death but can face emotional struggles later in life.

The bravery Tia showed during the 911 call touched many people across the country. Her calm voice, clear answers, and strength in such a frightening moment were remarkable. She provided law enforcement with everything they needed to respond quickly, likely preventing the situation from becoming even worse.

A Family’s Story Cut Short

Julie and Aeneas Hernlen had built a happy and loving life together before their tragic deaths. They met years earlier on Daytona Beach, Florida, where Aeneas worked as a lifeguard. Their shared love for surfing brought them together, and eventually, they married in the Virgin Islands. Later, they returned to Florida and purchased a home where they raised their daughter, Tia.

In 2005, their lives seemed full of promise. Julie was about to graduate with honors from Daytona Beach Community College, where she was studying to become a paralegal. Aeneas had recently started a new job. The couple enjoyed spending time with their daughter and creating a warm and stable home environment.

The tragedy not only ended their dreams but left Tia without both her parents at a very young age.

The Lasting Impact of Tia Hernlen’s Story

The story of Tia Hernlen continues to serve as a painful reminder of how quickly lives can change due to acts of violence and false assumptions. It also highlights the courage and strength of a young child who faced a terrifying situation with remarkable bravery. Her 911 call remains one of the most heartbreaking and inspiring examples of how even the youngest people can stay calm and focused in the worst of situations.

Authorities, legal experts, and the public have since reflected on the case, discussing the challenges in protecting victims from determined offenders. The story remains a powerful example of how important it is to take threats seriously and to improve ways to protect people from those who might cause harm.

The case of Tia Hernlen will never be forgotten, not only for the tragedy that took place but also for the incredible bravery shown by a 5-year-old girl who called for help when she needed it the most.