13-year-old boy stops kidnapper with a $3 toy his mom bought for him

Owen Burns, 13, from Alpena Township, Michigan, became a hero when he used a $3 slingshot to stop a kidnapper dragging his 8-year-old sister into the woods. Hearing her screams, Owen acted fast, hitting the attacker twice—once in the chest and between the eyes—forcing him to flee.

Police later arrested a 17-year-old suspect facing adult charges. Lt. John Grimshaw praised Owen’s bravery, calling his actions “extraordinary” and lifesaving.

Owen’s mother initially doubted the story until police confirmed the injuries matched the slingshot strikes. Owen’s quick thinking saved his sister and proved that movie-like heroics do happen in real life.