Julie and Aeneas Hernlen were a vibrant couple whose lives were tragically cut short in a violent act that shocked their community. On March 28, 2005, in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, they were murdered in their home by David Edward Johnson, a former acquaintance who mistakenly believed they had been involved in his arrest. This devastating event left their 5-year-old daughter, Tia, to find her parents and call 911, displaying remarkable composure in the face of unimaginable circumstances.
The Hernlens A Life Together
Julie Morgan and Aeneas Hernlen met in Daytona Beach, Florida, where their shared love for the beach and outdoor activities brought them together. Their relationship blossomed, leading to marriage in 1997 in the Virgin Islands. The couple later returned to the U.S. and settled in Daytona Beach, where they focused on creating a loving and supportive environment for their daughter, Tia Skye Hernlen, born in 2000.
Julie, born in upstate New York, had a spirited personality and was an avid soccer player during her high school years. Despite facing challenges due to a learning disability, she pursued higher education and earned an Associate of Arts degree from Valencia Community College and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Deaf Education from Flagler College. Julie later returned to school to study Legal Studies at Daytona Beach Community College, aiming to become a lawyer and make a difference in the community.
Aeneas, originally from DeLeon Springs, Florida, was known for his energetic and hardworking nature. He had a passion for the beach, fishing, boating, and camping. Aeneas worked as a lifeguard for the County Beach Services and later as a fabricator for a sign company. He aspired to become a firefighter/paramedic, driven by his desire to help others, especially during emergencies like the 2004 hurricanes.
The Tragic Event
On the night of March 28, 2005, David Edward Johnson, 33, broke into the Hernlens’ home. Johnson believed that Julie and Aeneas had been responsible for his arrest on drug-related charges, a claim that was unfounded. Despite their efforts to seek legal protection, including attempting to obtain an injunction against Johnson in January 2005, they were denied due to a lack of evidence of violence or stalking.
In the early hours of that morning, Johnson entered the Hernlens’ home and shot both Julie and Aeneas while they were sleeping. Julie died at the scene, and Aeneas was airlifted to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries the following day. Their 5-year-old daughter, Tia, awoke to the sound of gunshots and discovered her parents unresponsive. Demonstrating extraordinary bravery, she called 911 and calmly informed the dispatcher of the situation, providing crucial details that led to a swift response from authorities.
The Aftermath and Community Response
The community was left in shock and mourning following the deaths of Julie and Aeneas. Their daughter, Tia, went to live with her maternal grandparents in Central Florida, where she received the support and care she needed after such a traumatic experience. In recognition of the Hernlens’ dedication to education and their daughter’s future, a trust fund was established in Tia’s name to assist with her educational expenses and provide financial support as she grew up.
Julie and Aeneas’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of violence on families and communities. Their lives, filled with love, ambition, and a commitment to helping others, were tragically interrupted. However, the legacy of their devotion to each other and their daughter continues to inspire those who learn about their story.
Lessons and Reflections
The tragic deaths of Julie and Aeneas Hernlen highlight several important lessons
- The Importance of Addressing ThreatsDespite their efforts to seek legal protection, the Hernlens were denied an injunction against their attacker. This underscores the need for effective legal measures to protect individuals from potential harm.
- The Resilience of ChildrenTia’s ability to remain calm and provide critical information during a crisis demonstrates the resilience and strength that children can exhibit in challenging situations.
- The Impact of Community SupportThe establishment of a trust fund and the support from the community illustrate the positive impact that collective efforts can have in helping those affected by tragedy.
- The Need for VigilanceThe belief held by Johnson that the Hernlens were responsible for his arrest, despite evidence to the contrary, highlights the importance of addressing misconceptions and ensuring that justice is served fairly.
While the lives of Julie and Aeneas were tragically shortened, their story continues to resonate, reminding us of the importance of community, the resilience of the human spirit, and the need for vigilance in protecting individuals from harm.