Authorities have reported the arrest of Elijah Zion Bieniemy, the son of Kansas City Chiefs assistant coach Eric Bieniemy. He faces charges related to the shooting of his mother, Mia Bieniemy. The incident occurred in Ashburn, Virginia, where the family maintained a home from Eric Bieniemy’s time with the Washington Commanders.
The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office received a call late Sunday night regarding the shooting. Upon arrival, deputies discovered Mia Bieniemy, 57, with multiple gunshot wounds. She was quickly taken to a hospital and is currently in stable condition. Elijah Bieniemy, 27, was apprehended and charged with malicious wounding, using a firearm in the commission of a felony, and discharging a firearm inside a dwelling. He remains held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center. The investigation is ongoing.
Eric Bieniemy was attending the Chiefs’ training camp in St. Joseph, Missouri, when the incident occurred. He did not attend Monday’s workout, which was closed to the public. The Chiefs released a statement acknowledging the incident and respecting the family’s privacy. They extended their thoughts and prayers to those affected.
Eric Bieniemy joined Andy Reid’s staff in 2013 as part of the Kansas City Chiefs. Initially, he served as the running backs coach before becoming the offensive coordinator. His tenure has been successful, contributing to several Super Bowl appearances and victories. Despite his accomplishments, he was overlooked for various head-coaching opportunities, prompting a move to the Washington Commanders in 2023 to enhance his resume. However, the team encountered difficulties, leading to the dismissal of coach Ron Rivera’s staff.
Following a brief period as offensive coordinator at UCLA and a stint as the Bears’ running backs coach, Bieniemy rejoined the Chiefs. He stepped in for Matt Nagy as offensive coordinator and was present at the team’s offseason activities this summer. Last week, he returned for the start of training camp at Missouri Western State University.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid expressed enthusiasm for Bieniemy’s return, noting his strong leadership skills and work ethic. Reid commended him for maintaining focus and dedication.