As the first woman to solo anchor a primetime network news show, former CNN anchor Lynne Russell has seen, heard and reported on her share of unbelievable stories.

But earlier this week the 68-year-old lived one — when she survived a shootout at an Albuquerque motel thanks to the quick actions of her husband, a former soldier.

“I opened the door and [the intruder] materialized out of nowhere; he was inside,” she tells the New York Post of the altercation that took place on Tuesday night. “And he pushed me into the room and onto the bed and closed the door.”

At the time, her husband, Chuck de Caro, 65, was in the shower — but came out, completely naked, trying to calm the gunman who was demanding the couple forfeit any cash or valuables they may have had.

Chuck, a former Special Forces officer who currently works as a national security specialist, tried to talk the intruder down, but was unsuccessful. Instead, he made his way to the nightstand, where their .35-caliber handguns were stored.

When the gunman reached for something, he began shooting at Chuck, who promptly fired back as Lynne ducked behind a piece of furniture.

Lynne says, “It was a gun battle, and Chuck was bleeding heavily, but didn’t stop firing because the man was firing on him, and he was looking for me.”

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Chuck was shot three times — twice in the abdomen, once in the leg — before he managed to kill the intruder. He adds, “I was determined to save my dream girl’s life — even if it cost my own.”

And there’s no doubt she’s grateful for her husband’s quick thinking and unconditional love.

“My husband is a hero because he really saved our lives,” she gushes.