Devonelle Brimage was holding his 8-month-old son when the gunfire started, and in his final moments, he turned his body into a shield.

The 36-year-old father of 11 was pronounced dead at the scene, but the baby survived with minor injuries.

The shooting happened around 1:30 a.m. on Latham Avenue in Plymouth, North Carolina, where Brimage was found dead in a vehicle parked at his home.

Another passenger, 38-year-old Avione Webb, was discovered shot in the rear seat.

A Father Who Never Missed a Day

"I can't even explain the love that he had for him, because it was not a day that went by that he didn't see my baby," she told reporters.

"He took him places... things father would do with his son."

The Man Behind the Headlines

Family described Brimage as someone who regularly helped others — from giving his last five dollars to protecting his baby in his last moments.

"We're still processing — it still does not feel real because who would want to hurt my brother," his family said.

"He loved everyone, and it's just been rough for all of us."

Washington County EMS attempted life-saving measures, but Brimage was pronounced dead at the scene.

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and Washington County Sheriff's Office are assisting with the case.

Brimage leaves behind 11 children and 11 siblings, and a community that watched a man use his final act to save the life he held most dear.