WICHITA, KS – A 22-year-old Wichita mother was violently attacked in her own home on Christmas Eve while holding her infant, police said Monday, describing a terrifying ordeal that left her hospitalized and her family deeply shaken.
The woman was reportedly at home with her 1-month-old child and other family members around 9:30 a.m. when a man knocked on their door in the 7200 block of 24th Street. Unaware of the danger that awaited, she opened the door, thinking the visitor might be a salesperson because of the holiday presence of several cars in the driveway.
Instead, authorities say, the man at the door, later identified as 43-year-old Jason Eastburn, immediately threatened her life and forced his way into the house. In a sudden act of violence, Eastburn pulled a hammer from behind his back and repeatedly struck the woman in the head as she held her baby, according to an arrest affidavit released this week.
Despite her injuries, the mother managed to shield her newborn during the assault, as the other residents of the home — including her 76-year-old grandmother — intervened. Their quick actions distracted the intruder long enough for the young mother and her baby to escape further harm by moving to a secure room inside the house.
Emergency responders arrived shortly after the attack and assessed the woman’s injuries. She was treated for head wounds that required four staples to close, according to medical personnel. The infant was unharmed.
The family’s ordeal did not end with the escape. After a struggle with several residents, Eastburn fled the scene, reportedly dropping the hammer before running across the street to a park. Wichita police soon located and apprehended him there, noting he had a visible injury on his own forehead at the time of arrest.
Officers say Eastburn made statements to first responders and later to detectives, indicating he had gone to the house with the intent to kill. Eastburn allegedly claimed he targeted the home because the number of cars suggested several people would be present.
Investigators learned Eastburn told police he had chosen to use a hammer that once belonged to his father, saying the object held sentimental value. He also indicated ongoing mental health struggles and admitted he was not receiving treatment, according to the police affidavit.
Eastburn is now being held in Sedgwick County Jail, facing multiple felony charges, including attempted first-degree murder, aggravated battery, and aggravated endangering of a child. He remains in custody without bond as he awaits further legal proceedings.
Authorities credited the family’s quick thinking and courage for helping to prevent an even greater tragedy, while reaffirming their commitment to supporting the victims. The mother is expected to recover from her physical injuries, but the trauma of the attack has left a lasting impact on the family as they move forward from the violent encounter.