Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy has shared an encouraging update on his wife Mia’s recovery, three months after she was shot several times at the family home in Ashburn, Virginia.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Bieniemy said his wife was making strong progress through rehabilitation and had recently travelled with the wives of Chiefs players.
“She’s doing great,” he said in response to a question from Chiefs reporter Matt Derrick.
Bieniemy described Mia as having been a “rock star” throughout her recovery and said he appreciated the interest in her condition.
He added that the trip had given her an opportunity to spend time away from home, joking that he was probably getting on her nerves during the visit.
First Trip to Kansas City Since the Shooting
Mia had remained in Virginia while recovering from her injuries. The Chiefs’ recent bye week provided her with an opportunity to travel across the country and visit Kansas City, where Bieniemy spends the football season.
Her trip with the players’ wives marked a significant change in her recovery routine, allowing her to leave Virginia and spend time with the group.
Bieniemy said her rehabilitation had been progressing well enough for her to take part in the journey.
Couple’s Son Faces Three Felony Charges
The shooting occurred in July when the couple’s youngest son, Elijah Bieniemy, 27, allegedly shot his mother at their home.
He was subsequently charged with malicious wounding, using a firearm in the commission of a felony and discharging a firearm inside a dwelling.
The case moved forward last month after Elijah underwent a psychological evaluation. Doctors determined that he was competent to receive legal counsel and understand the charges against him.
However, his legal team could still pursue an insanity defence, according to attorney Jeff Mangeno.
In a recent court filing, public defender Lorie O’Donnell wrote that Elijah appeared to be experiencing significant mental health issues.
Psychological Assessment Clears Way for Legal Proceedings
The assessment addressed whether Elijah could understand the legal proceedings and communicate with his lawyers.
Although he was found competent to stand trial, Mangeno said the outcome did not prevent his defence team from arguing that he should be found not guilty by reason of insanity.
The three charges against him remain part of the criminal case arising from the July shooting.
Bieniemy Returned to Chiefs After Wife’s Approval
At the time of the shooting, Bieniemy was in Kansas City attending the Chiefs’ training camp. He was immediately excused from his duties so he could travel to Virginia and be with his wife.
He returned to the team approximately two weeks later, explaining that Mia had given him her blessing to resume his coaching responsibilities.
Speaking during his first press conference back in Missouri, Bieniemy said her recovery was one of the main reasons he felt able to return.
He described her as a soldier and a saint, while acknowledging that his presence at home had sometimes frustrated family members.
Bieniemy joked that he had spent time watching football, shouting at the television, players and coaches, as well as questioning decisions made during games.
He said Mia eventually encouraged him to return to work after he had kept up with developments at the team throughout his time away.
Chiefs Begin Season With Five Consecutive Wins
Bieniemy has since resumed his role as the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator as the team continues its NFL campaign.
The Chiefs had won their first five games of the season, with the offence attracting attention during the opening stretch.
His latest comments provided an update on Mia’s rehabilitation and her return to travelling activities following the shooting.
