NFL Coordinator's Son Found Competent, Shooting Trial To Proceed: Report

ASHBURN, VA – An Ashburn man accused of shooting his mother, the wife of an NFL coordinator, in their home has been deemed competent enough for the trial to move forward, according to reports.

Elijah Bieniemy, 27, the son of Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, was arrested on July 26 after a shooting at his family’s home on the 20000 block of Northpark Drive. He is accused of shooting his mother, Mia Bieniemy, and is charged with malicious wounding, shooting in an occupied building and using a firearm to commit a felony.

Bieniemy’s lawyers requested a mental competency exam days after his arrest, saying their client was seriously ill and his mental state would be crucial to his defense.

Now, ESPN reports, Bieniemy has been found competent enough to receive counsel and understand the charges against him, though the finding does not preclude an insanity defense.

According to the outlet, Bieniemy appeared in court via video feed on Wednesday, and his new attorneys requested a 60-day continuance to review the case. Bieniemy was originally represented by a public defender and described as indigent. He is now represented by counsel from Fairfax law firm Dycio & Biggs. His next hearing is scheduled for Nov. 4.

Mia Bieniemy is expected to recover, and Eric Bieniemy has returned to work with the Chiefs.

Eric Bieniemy is a former NFL running back and served as offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders during their 2023 season. He and Mia have two sons. Loudoun Now reports that the Bieniemies bought the home on Northpark Drive in July 2023.

Read more from ESPN here.