KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Tuesday was somber for the family of Claude Johnson, also known as Sampson. They remembered Johnson as the father and grandfather who was deeply loved by his family and cared for his children. Johnson was shot and killed on Saturday in Knoxville.
Claude worked at Anderson Automotive and Towing — the place where he was fatally shot. Steven Johnson, his son, said his father arrived at the auto shop because an alarm was going off. He said Claude originally had the day off from work.
"He loved money, a lot. He loved making money," said Steven. "Working for him, my phone (would ring) all day long ... And I was just like, 'Gosh almighty, I wish he would stop calling.' I wish I’d never said that. I’ll never get to see it again."
When Claude arrived, the Knoxville Police Department said Robert Scruggs shot and killed him before driving away from the scene in Claude's car. KPD said Scuggs then shot and killed another man down the street before he was taken into custody and charged.
Claude was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
His family said they want him to be remembered for who he was and what he loved, which includes spending time with his family, cooking and his boat and camper.
Steven also said his father's legacy would live on.
"He was the only person I could call if I needed advice," he said. "I wouldn't even question it. I would take it to the bank because I knew he knew everything. He was my superhero."