Colorado Community Mourns Death of Inspiring Single Mother Jennifer James — A Cancer Survivor Killed by Stray Bullet Fired Into Her Home
Berthoud, CO — A Colorado family and entire community are in mourning after the senseless and tragic death of Jennifer James, a 49-year-old single mother of four who had triumphed over cancer not once but four separate times, only to lose her life to a random act of gun violence in the sanctuary of her own home.
The incident occurred on April 28 in the quiet town of Berthoud, just north of Denver. Authorities say James was inside her home when a bullet, allegedly fired by 20-year-old Ebenezer Worku, tore through a window and struck her in the arm and chest, ultimately ending the life of a woman whose courage and resilience had already inspired many.
According to a police affidavit cited by KDVR, Worku admitted to accidentally discharging his Glock 22 handgun while sitting in his car outside James’ residence. He claimed he was “cleaning his gun” and unintentionally fired the first round — then discharged a second shot while attempting to clear the weapon’s chamber. One of those bullets found its way into the James home, fatally wounding Jennifer as her children remained inside.
Despite her injuries, Jennifer James managed to call 911 herself, a final act of strength before collapsing and ceasing to breathe. Emergency responders arrived quickly and attempted life-saving measures, but it was too late. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Two of her children were home at the time of the shooting. While they were physically unharmed, the emotional toll is unimaginable.
“A Selfless Mother and Warrior”
Jennifer’s death has left her family shattered. Her eldest daughter, Ashley James, described her mother as a pillar of strength, someone who “devoted her whole life” to her children and defied the odds again and again through her repeated battles with cancer.
“She was the most selfless mom that anyone could ask for,” Ashley said. “She kind of devoted her whole life to us kids, so I’ll be forever grateful for everything that she did for us.”
Jennifer’s story had been one of perseverance and hope. A four-time cancer survivor and full-time single parent, she served as a symbol of endurance to those around her — the kind of person who faced every obstacle head-on and never stopped fighting for her children’s future.
Her death, her family says, was not only tragic but senseless — a cruel irony after everything she had already survived.
“It just makes me mad that such a senseless act of violence occurred,” Ashley added. “You never think that’s going to happen to you.”
Charges Filed Against Suspect
The man accused of firing the fatal shots, Ebenezer Worku, has been charged with first-degree murder. He was taken into custody and booked into the Larimer County Jail, where he is currently being held on a $1.25 million cash-only bond. Authorities have not indicated any prior connection between Worku and Jennifer James or her family, suggesting the act was entirely random.
The shooting has sparked outrage in the Berthoud community, where neighbors and residents are grappling with the stark reality of how an ordinary day turned into a nightmare for an innocent family.
An Urgent Call for Accountability and Change
Jennifer James’ death is more than a tragic story — it is a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless firearm handling. While Worku has claimed the shooting was unintentional, prosecutors are treating the act with the gravity it deserves.
Gun safety advocates say the case underscores the urgent need for stricter gun ownership accountability, especially regarding proper handling, storage, and discharge of firearms.
“There is no excuse,” one neighbor said. “Cleaning your gun outside someone’s house, pointing it in the direction of a home with kids inside — this wasn’t just a mistake. It was negligent. And it took a mother away from her children.”
Remembering Jennifer James
In the days following her death, tributes have poured in for Jennifer James from all corners of her community. Friends and neighbors described her as “fiercely loving,” “genuinely kind,” and “incredibly brave.” Vigils are being planned, and a GoFundMe page has been set up to assist the family with funeral expenses and ongoing support for her children.
The page includes photos of Jennifer with her children, smiling, radiant, and strong — just as her loved ones hope she will be remembered.
“She didn’t deserve this,” said a family friend. “She deserved peace, safety, and to enjoy life after everything she went through. It’s just not fair.”
Jennifer James leaves behind a legacy of strength, love, and perseverance. As her community mourns, they are also demanding justice — and vowing to honor her memory by ensuring her story is not forgotten.
If you or someone you know has information that could assist investigators, please contact the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office.
