It was a family affair that came to a tragic end on the side of the interstate. Now a father has been remembered as a hero after he died trying to save his son.
"He was the best dad anyone could ask for. His kids were his world," said Ashlee Andexler.
A world 30-year-old Jeffrey Shaun Andexler, known as Shaun, wanted to make better for his wife and five children.
In fact, it was his son's 9th birthday, and they all went to celebrate in Nashville at a haunted house; however, his wife, Ashlee Andexler, said things took a tragic turn on Interstate 40 near mile marker 190 at 11:07 p.m. Friday.
Read: Pedestrian Struck, Killed On I-40
"My husband noticed the car rolling behind us, off the interstate. It went off in the woods," said Andexler.
One of their children was in the car that left the interstate, and that's when Shaun acted fast.
"He was running across that interstate to save Jaden, and he made it almost to the last white line, and he got hit," said Andexler.
His wife and children watched their lives unravel on the side of that highway. Ashlee made it across the interstate, but it was too late.
"When I got to him, his eyes were open. I said his name, and he didn't answer," said Andexler.
Shaun was already gone, but his son was still alive.
"My husband was a hero, he saved my child and gave his own life," said Andexler.
A hero who acted fast to save a life, while sacrificing his own.
"I guess God chooses to take his angels when it's their time you know," said Andexler.
Shaun Andexler did not have life insurance. There is a gofundme account set up for the family. Visit the account online to donate.*
A spokesperson with the Tennessee State Patrol said they're saddened by this accident, and the agency sent its condolences to the family.
*NewsChannel5.com does not assure that the monies or donations deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a donation, you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
