In the quiet community of Berthoud, Colorado—about an hour north of Denver—a devastating tragedy has shaken residents to their core. Jennifer James, a 49-year-old single mother of four and a four-time cancer survivor, was killed in a shocking and senseless shooting just steps from where she raised her children.
James, who had battled cancer with extraordinary strength and resilience, was fatally shot late on the night of April 28, 2025. Around 11:20 p.m., a bullet pierced through her home’s window, striking her in the arm and chest. Despite her injuries, James managed to dial 911 before collapsing.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but James had already passed away. Reports indicate she was undergoing chemotherapy at the time of the shooting.
“She was bravely fighting cancer again when her life was stolen,” said Juliána King, a family friend who launched a GoFundMe to help support James’ children. “Jennifer was like a beam of sunshine—everyone who met her remembered her kindness.”
Suspect Says Shooting Was Accidental
On May 1, authorities from the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office arrested 20-year-old Ebenezer Worku in connection with the shooting. According to an affidavit cited by KDVR News, Worku claimed he was cleaning a firearm in his parked car outside James’ home— a gift from a family member for his birthday—when it discharged twice out of the driver’s side window.
Worku, who told investigators he suffers from “homicidal schizophrenia,” said he didn’t realize anyone had been hit and drove away with his headlights off to avoid being seen.
When later informed he had killed someone, Worku reportedly broke down in distress. “I did it, and I’m getting punished for it…put me in jail,” he told police, even requesting the death penalty.
Worku was charged with first-degree murder under “extreme indifference” and is currently being held at Larimer County Jail on a $1.25 million cash-only bond.
Community Mourning a Life of Resilience
Jennifer’s eldest daughter, Ashley James, shared her heartbreak in an emotional interview with KDVR.
“She was the most selfless mom anyone could ask for,” she said. “She dedicated everything to us, and I’ll always be grateful for the life she gave us.”
Ashley, along with her siblings, is left to mourn a mother who endured 20 years of cancer treatment without complaint and always put her children first.
“She started fighting breast cancer at 29. To have her life end like this—it feels like a cruel joke,” Ashley wrote in a statement to 9News. “Her strength and resilience were unmatched, and I hope to carry those qualities with me.”
On May 14, the town of Berthoud gathered to remember James not only for how she died, but for the life she lived. Friends, neighbors, and loved ones came together to honor her legacy—one defined by love, sacrifice, and a courage that refused to quit.
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