DeKalb County woman recalls survival in brutal home invasion, stabbing

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — A DeKalb County woman is counting her blessings after nearly losing her life during a brutal home invasion in January.

Dr. Jena Salem said a man broke into her house, dragged her into the basement, sexually assaulted her and stabbed her in the chest. The two struggled with the knife, breaking the blade, according to DeKalb police.

“I plant my feet onto his chest and I shove him off of me. At that point he backs up and I’m able to get out of my house,” said Salem.

The man has been identified as Derrick Burnstine.

“My mind in that moment is that he killed me. He just slit me across my throat, I’m preparing my mind I’m about to die, but my body breaks away from him,” said Salem.

Police arrested Burnstine a short time later near the house. Salem credits pure will to live and adrenaline with saving her life. She hopes to inspire others to fight and remain vigilant.

“Even in what you think are insurmountable odds, even if you think you’re already dead, you still fight, because you will never get that chance ever again,” said Salem.

Salem did not know the suspect.