Many parents, including myself, wouldn’t hesitate for a moment to sacrifice their lives for their children. It’s a grim thought but one every parent has likely had at some point, especially in today’s world. Though those same children would be forced to grapple with the loss of their parent, I don’t know many who would even hesitate for a second if the choice came down to it. For North Carolina dad of 11 Devonelle Brimage, 36, he wasted no time shielding his innocent baby from gunfire that ultimately saved the baby’s life but cost him his own, per People.
Brimage was shot while inside a vehicle parked in a driveway.
Also inside the vehicle were Avione Linquad Webb, 38, and Brimage’s 8-month-old child. When police arrived about 1:30 a.m., they found Brimage unresponsive, while Webb appeared to also have gunshot-inflicted injuries, the Plymouth Police Department shared in a news release. The perpetrators reportedly fled the scene. Though Brimage was declared dead at the scene, the other victim was taken to a nearby hospital as was the infant. The child’s injuries were not life-threatening and the baby has since been released, but it’s not clear if Webb was discharged.
According to WITN, the child’s mother claims that Brimage was holding their baby at the time gunfire erupted and used his own body to shield the infant.
People are hailing the dad a ‘hero’ for his final moments of pure bravery.
“Now that’s a father,” wrote one follower on YouTube. “May his soul rest in peace knowing his children are safe and alive.”
According to Brimage’s obituary, services are yet to be set up, though many online have shared their heartfelt condolences to his surviving relatives.
“Better known as Heavy D my younger brother. I just can’t believe this happen to you. But, just know God had a plan. Heavy D you will be missed,” one heartbroken sibling wrote in one of the obituary’s tributes. “I know our grandparents our aunts and uncles will be smiling as they see you come through the gates. This isn’t a goodbye my brother it’s a see you later. I love you.”
“You may be gone, but your love and memory live on in our children,” another tribute offered. “Thank you for being their father and for all the moments you shared with us. You will be missed, remembered, and loved always.”
To help support his children, a GoFundMe was set up in his honor.
“In his final moments, he showed incredible courage and love—using his own body to shield and protect his 8-month-old baby,” the fundraising organizer wrote. “That act alone speaks volumes about the kind of man he was: selfless, protective, and full of love for his family.” It’s close to reaching its modest goal.
Police are still actively investigating the incident and are encouraging anyone with information to come forward.
