The son of Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy has been charged after authorities say he shot his mother at the family’s home in Ashburn, Virginia, in an incident that left her hospitalized with multiple gunshot wounds. According to the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded Sunday evening to the residence, where they found 57-year-old Mia Bieniemy suffering from injuries. She was taken to a nearby hospital and was listed in stable condition as of Monday.
Authorities identified the suspect as 27-year-old Elijah Zion Bieniemy, who was arrested at the scene and is being held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center. Investigators said he has been charged with malicious wounding, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony and discharging a firearm inside a dwelling. Officials have not disclosed a possible motive, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Eric Bieniemy was in St. Joseph, Missouri, with the Chiefs for training camp when the shooting occurred and was not at the Virginia home. He was absent from the team’s activities Monday as he attended to the family emergency. The Chiefs acknowledged the situation in a statement, saying, “The club is aware of the incident involving Eric Bieniemy’s family. Out of respect for their privacy, we won’t have a comment at this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.” Head coach Andy Reid also expressed support for Bieniemy, emphasizing that family takes precedence during such circumstances.
Bieniemy returned to Kansas City earlier this year after previous coaching stops with the Washington Commanders and Chicago Bears, rejoining Andy Reid’s staff following his earlier tenure as the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator during multiple Super Bowl-winning seasons. During his absence, assistant coaches are expected to oversee his responsibilities until he returns. Authorities have not announced any additional arrests or charges, and no further details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting have been released.
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