HICKMAN COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) - Loved ones are mourning the loss of a beloved Hickman County business owner who they said died while saving a teen.
Family members said the great grandfather would do anything for anyone and added that's exactly what CJ was doing on Wayne Road as he made his way home from work.
"He died right there saving the boy's life," said Michelle Parish, as she gestured at the road.
Just down the street from where the Parishs live, Michelle said a teenage neighbor and his friend were riding four-wheelers. Investigators said there was an argument with homeowner Danny Pewitt. That's when CJ stopped to intervene.
"He could have drove right by and come home, but he didn't. He would never," Michelle explained.
Her husband of more than 40 was shot and killed while the teen was shot in the arm.
"The boy told me he knows he is his guardian angel because he wouldn't be here if he hadn't stopped," said Michelle.
The teen is now home recovering, while 70-year-old Pewitt is behind bars facing criminal homicide.
"Why him?" Michelle questioned. "It's not fair."
She said CJ was a father of six, well-known in the community as the owner of Action Disposal. He is being remembered for his down to earth, funny personality and caring heart.
"He will be missed by so many. We didn't lose a husband and a father and a grandfather, Hickman County lost a great man. The only thing I had in this world was him. There's nobody like him; nobody can ever fill his shoes."