COMMERCE CITY, COLORADO — A real estate agent was happy to have her gun with her during routine showing when a man, pretending to be a potential buyer, wanted much more.
Everything seemed normal at first, but things changed quickly when they got upstairs towards the end of the showing.
Upon entering the master bedroom, [Ernest] Chrisman pulled out a large knife and cornered [Dawna] Hetzler.
The now knife wielding attacker pulled out a six-inch rope and ordered Hetzler into the closet, but she wasn’t going to give up that easy.
Hetzler drew her firearm, but in her hesitation the attacker was able to spray her in the eyes with bear spray.
via secondamendmentdaily.com
After the spray, Hetzler found herself blinded and in a lot of pain. Still, she fired a shot in Chrisman’s direction.
It doesn’t seem that she hit her target, but it was enough to send him running for the hills. He was apprehended a short time later and arrested for burglary, assault and robbery.
“My life was in danger and if I did not have my firearm, I would not be here today,” Hetzler commented.
“I have heard about fearing open houses. I don’t live my life in fear. I live my life in faith. Faith trumps fear,” Hetzler said. “For my fellow realtors, we always hear take two to an open house. Two is not enough, you need to know what you’re going to do in any certain circumstance and be able to act on that.”
Being a real estate agent can be tricky and dangerous business, as you literally find yourself inside homes by yourself. There is no telling who will be showing up, and it’s always a good idea to keep yourself protected and have a plan.
Luckily, in this case, Hetzler was able to defend herself successfully, even after being sprayed in the eyes with bear spray.
Side note: Maintain distance whenever possible.
