A dad-of-two was shot to death in front of his house as he tried to stop someone stealing his wife's car.
His wife desperately tried to save his life using CPR as their horrified sons looked on.
Michael Brasel, 44, a much loved youth hockey coach, was fatally shot multiple times at around 7.30am on Saturday (May 6) in front of his home in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Emergency services rushed to the scene but Michael couldn't be saved and he was pronounced dead at hospital.
According to his wife he was killed while confronting someone trying to break into her car.
Writing a heart-breaking tribute on social media, wife Hilary Brasel said: "So I am so honoured to have shared my life with this amazing man for 23 years.
"Michael Scott Brasel was tragically shot in our front yard after confronting someone trying to break into my car.
"Ever the protector and good man he stood up for me with his last effort and breath."
A police spokesperson said they believed Michael was shot while interrupting a crime.
No arrests have been made and the suspected gunman remains on the loose.
Describing the horror of the incident, Hilary continued: "Never thought I would wake up to three gunshots all of which hit Michael in the chest.
"Never thought I would have to try to revive my husband with CPR while my boys are calling 911 and watched.
"Never thought we would have to ride in a squad car to help SPPD investigators find his killers."
Their children are Oliver in Grade Eight and Miles in Grade Five.
Paying tribute to her husband, she wrote: "He had the best sense of humour, giant love for his boys, and ever giving spirit to help out those around him.
"He loved to coach hockey for both the Roseville and Langford Park Youth Hockey Programs over the past seven years. He loved music, art and was forever being the silly one to help us all forget our problems and fears.
"He was one in a million and I have no idea how to do this life without him."
A fundraiser was set up to help raise money for the family.
The fundraiser read: "Michael will always be remembered for his unwavering love for his children, his unbreakable bond with his wife Hilary, and his infectious spirit that touched the lives of everyone he met.
"He was a devoted coach who inspired and encouraged countless young athletes to achieve their full potential."
