In the early hours of March 28, 2005, a five-year-old girl named Tia Hernlen made a 911 call that would forever haunt the listeners and capture national attention. The tragic event on that fateful day claimed the lives of her parents, Julie and Aeneas Hernlen, after a brutal attack in their New Smyrna Beach, Florida, home. As the only witness to the horrific crime, Tia’s life changed forever.. In the years since the tragedy, she has moved forward, but her story remains one of sorrow, strength, and recovery.
Today, Tia Hernlen now lives a private and secretive life, far removed from the public eye that once was so focused on her. This article explores the tragedy that shaped her childhood, the aftermath, and where Tia Hernlen is now.
The Tragic Night: A 911 Call That Shook the Nation
The night of March 28, 2005, began like any other for the Hernlen family. But in the early morning hours, five-year-old Tia Hernlen was abruptly awakened by the sound of gunfire. Frightened and confused, Tia ventured out of her bedroom to find her parents, Julie and Aeneas Hernlen, critically injured in their bed. Julie had already succumbed to her injuries, while Aeneas, barely alive, was bleeding profusely.
Tia, showing incredible composure for a child her age, dialed 911 and calmly told the dispatcher, “Someone shot my mommy and daddy.” Her steady voice, though filled with the innocence of youth, conveyed the horror unfolding in their home. Authorities arrived to find her mother, Julie, already dead, while her father, Aeneas, was rushed to the hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The 911 call made by Tia Hernlen would soon become infamous, drawing national media attention. The recording of the little girl’s voice, calmly describing her parents’ shooting, became a heart-wrenching reminder of the senseless violence that had torn her family apart.
What Happened to Tia Hernlen’s Parents?
Tia Hernlen’s parents, Julie, 31, and Aeneas, 29, were murdered by a man named David Edward Johnson. Johnson, a disgruntled acquaintance of the Hernlens, had been stalking and harassing the family for months. He deeply believed they were responsible for his legal troubles, even though this belief was unfounded.
On the night of the attack, Johnson broke into the Hernlen home and shot both Julie and Aeneas while they were sleeping in their bed. After committing the crime, Johnson fled the scene and later took his own life. The Hernlen family had lived in fear of Johnson’s escalating behavior, but tragically, their fears became reality when he committed the ultimate act of violence.
The death of Tia Hernlen’s parents was a shocking and devastating blow not only to the young girl but to the entire New Smyrna Beach community. The Hernlens had been well-known and liked within the area, and their brutal murder left a deep scar on those who knew them.
Tia Hernlen Now: A Life of Privacy
In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, Tia Hernlen was placed in the care of her maternal grandparents, who took on the responsibility of raising her. They worked tirelessly to shield her from the media attention that surrounded the case. As the story of Tia’s tragic loss and brave 911 call spread, the public’s curiosity grew, but her grandparents made sure to protect her as best they could.
Tia Hernlen now lives a highly secretive life, having chosen to distance herself from the traumatic past. In 2018, Tia made the decision to legally change her name, a move intended to provide her with a fresh start and allow her to live her life outside of the shadow of her childhood tragedy.
As of 2023, few people publicly know about Tia Hernlen’s current whereabouts or activities. What is clear, however, is that she has made a conscious effort to remain out of the spotlight. By keeping a low profile and avoiding media attention, Tia has been able to lead a life focused on healing and personal growth.
The Aftermath: Tia Hernlen’s Trust Fund and Support
After supporters established a trust fund for Tia Hernlen, it aimed to provide financial support for her future following her parents’ murder. The community and others donated generously, moved by the young girl’s ordeal and determined to ensure she had the resources to move forward in life.
The trust fund has given Tia financial security, which has undoubtedly helped her on her journey to rebuild her life. Although specific details about the trust remain private, people speculate that Tia Hernlen’s net worth could reach $50 million, thanks to the trust and possible legal settlements related to her parents’ deaths. While unverified, this speculation shows the financial stability Tia enjoys.
Tia Hernlen’s Journey of Healing
Unimaginable loss and grief marked Tia Hernlen’s childhood. At the age of five, she not only lost her parents in a violent manner but also became the center of a media storm. The trauma of witnessing her parents’ murder and making the 911 call would be enough to scar any individual, let alone a young child.
However, Tia’s grandparents ensured that she received the psychological and emotional support she needed to process her grief and trauma. Extensive therapy and counseling played a critical role in helping Tia navigate the painful emotions tied to her past. Tia Hernlen now embodies strength and resilience, having survived the horrors of her childhood and worked to build a new life for herself.
While many children who experience such traumatic events struggle with their mental health well into adulthood, Tia has shown remarkable resilience. Her ability to move forward, change her name, and maintain her privacy demonstrates a strong desire for healing and recovery.
Tia Hernlen Today: Rumors and Speculation
Over the years, rumors have swirled regarding Tia Hernlen’s current life and activities. Some unconfirmed reports suggest that she may have pursued a career in the entertainment industry, though these claims remain speculative at best. There have also been suggestions that Tia Hernlen now uses the name “Tya Skye Hernlen” on Instagram, where she may have gained a following.
However, no one has substantiated much of this speculation, and Tia herself has made no public statements or appearances to confirm or deny these rumors. What is certain is that she continues to value her privacy and has chosen not to engage with the media or public spotlight.
A Life Changed Forever: Tia Hernlen’s Legacy of Resilience
The story of Tia Hernlen now is one of resilience in the face of overwhelming tragedy. Losing both parents in such a violent and publicized manner could have easily derailed her life, but Tia has shown a remarkable ability to rise above the horrors of her past. With the support of her grandparents, financial stability through her trust fund, and a commitment to privacy, Tia has worked to rebuild her life on her own terms.
Her decision to change her name and avoid public attention speaks to her desire to move on from her traumatic past, though the memory of her parents’ murder will likely always remain with her. Tia Hernlen now represents a symbol of strength, survival, and the power of the human spirit to heal after unimaginable loss.
Conclusion: Where Is Tia Hernlen Now?
Tia Hernlen now lives a private life, far from the public eye and the tragic events that once defined her. While much about her current life remains unknown, it is clear that she has made significant efforts to distance herself from the past and carve out a new identity. Her story serves as a reminder of the long-lasting effects of trauma but also highlights the incredible resilience that can emerge in the wake of tragedy.
Though the world may never fully know the details of Tia Hernlen’s life today, what remains evident is her desire for peace and privacy. The story of Tia Hernlen now will continue to inspire those who face their own struggles, showing that even in the darkest moments, it is possible to survive, heal, and rebuild Fame Light.