A New Mexico grandmother, Anissa Tinnin, became a hero after she shot down a runaway criminal who invaded her home during a quiet movie night with her granddaughter. Just ten minutes before the chaos began, Tinnin and her granddaughter were enjoying a fun evening together, singing and dancing along to the Taylor Swift Eras Tour film. Their peaceful evening was disrupted when Joseph Rivera, a 34-year-old criminal being chased by police, burst into the home after crashing a stolen car and taking off on foot.
Tinnin recounted the harrowing experience, stating that Rivera demanded her keys and threatened to harm her and her granddaughter. Despite attempting to calm him down and comply with his demands, she knew she needed to protect herself and her family. Tinnin eventually handed the key fob over to Rivera and pleaded with him to leave peacefully. However, she quickly called 911 as he headed towards the car, preparing herself for his return with her gun in hand.
When Rivera returned to the house, Tinnin warned him multiple times to stay back before ultimately firing her gun in self-defense. She offered to help with his wound, but made it clear that she would not hesitate to shoot him again if necessary. Police arrived shortly after, apprehending Rivera and charging him with burglary, attempted felony, and auto theft, in addition to his previous felony convictions. Tinnin credited a guardian angel for protecting her and her granddaughter during the terrifying ordeal.
Rivera had been wanted for a prior charge at the time of the incident, highlighting the failures in the criminal justice system that allowed him to continue his criminal activities despite previous convictions. Tinnin expressed frustration with the city’s leadership for allowing criminals to victimize innocent people on a daily basis. Despite the traumatic experience, Tinnin expressed gratitude for the protection they received and the bravery they showed during the home invasion.
The incident sparked a debate about self-defense and the rights of individuals to protect themselves and their loved ones in dangerous situations. Tinnin’s actions were praised by many as an example of courage and quick thinking in the face of imminent danger. The story also raised awareness about the need for stronger measures to prevent repeat offenders from continuing their criminal behavior and endangering innocent lives in the community. Ultimately, Tinnin’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared to defend oneself and others in unexpected and life-threatening situations.