WYOMING, MI – A quiet neighborhood in Wyoming, Michigan, was shaken last week by a tragic incident that left 57-year-old David Boren dead. Authorities say the suspect, Jeremiah Hernandez, 36, allegedly attacked Boren, his stepfather, at their home near Byron Center Avenue and 36th Street. The attack occurred on a Wednesday evening, and Boren succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter, casting a pall over the community.
Court documents reveal that Hernandez reportedly claimed divine instruction led him to assault Boren. The unsettling assertion has left neighbors grappling with the bizarre and violent nature of the crime. One neighbor, Amber Brandie Smith, described the scene as something ripped from a movie. She witnessed the commotion unfold, which culminated in Hernandez’s arrest in her backyard.
Smith recounted the chaotic evening when police swarmed the area, their flashing lights casting an eerie glow through her windows. The disturbance was not Smith’s first encounter with Hernandez; he had previously broken into her home in March 2022. The repeat intrusion intensified the trauma for Smith and her family, bringing back unsettling memories.
The situation escalated when Smith’s 12-year-old daughter noticed a man outside her bedroom window. Her alertness prompted Smith to call the police, leading to Hernandez’s apprehension. Within minutes, the police presence increased dramatically, with officers and K-9 units converging on the scene to secure Hernandez.
Reflecting on the night’s events, Smith expressed gratitude for the swift response from law enforcement, which provided a measure of reassurance amid the fear. Yet, the incident served as a stark reminder for residents to remain vigilant and ensure their safety.
Hernandez, already familiar to the legal system due to a previous second-degree home invasion charge, now faces additional charges related to the fatal assault on his stepfather. His court appearance next week will further unravel the legal proceedings that lie ahead.
As the community processes the tragedy, residents are reminded of the importance of security measures, such as installing cameras and keeping doors locked. The incident has left a lasting impact, particularly on Boren’s family, who must now cope with an irreplaceable loss.
The neighborhood’s sense of security has been disrupted, but the hope is that justice will bring some closure to those affected by this senseless act of violence.