In a devastating and senseless act of violence, Paresh “Little Prince” Patel, a beloved husband, father, and valued member of the Lewisburg community, was tragically gunned down during a robbery at the Marathon gas station located at 1535 Mooresville Highway, where he worked and served his community daily.
A Brutal and Heartless Attack
Surveillance video from the night of the crime shows a chilling sequence of events. During the robbery, Prince is seen complying, handing over the money—yet the suspect, identified as David Hamilton, shows no mercy. After shooting Prince once, the assailant leaves, only to return moments later and shoot him two more times, ensuring his death in what can only be described as an execution-style murder.
This act wasn’t only a robbery—it was premeditated, unnecessary, and merciless. Prince, who did not resist and posed no threat, was left dying behind the counter of a place where he had faithfully served his neighbors for years. The brutality of the act has ignited a wave of heartbreak, anger, and calls for justice across the region.
More Than an Employee
Paresh Patel, affectionately known as “Little Prince,” was so much more than a store clerk. He was a gentle, kind-hearted man, deeply loved by his family and respected by all who knew him. His warm smile, humble demeanor, and quiet strength touched countless lives in Lewisburg.
A devoted husband and father, Prince worked long hours to provide for his family. To customers, he was a friendly face who remembered names and greeted everyone with kindness. To neighbors, he was a trusted friend. To his family, he was everything.
His tragic and unnecessary death has left a void that will never be filled.
Suspect in Custody
After a manhunt that had the community on edge, David Hamilton was arrested in Pulaski, TN, and charged with criminal homicide. Law enforcement has confirmed that additional charges are forthcoming, though specific details have not yet been released to the public.
The arrest offers a small sense of relief to a grieving community, but the pain and shock remain. As the investigation continues, citizens are urging the justice system to act swiftly and decisively to ensure that the full weight of the law is brought down on the perpetrator.
No Justification, Only Grief
In the aftermath of the crime, one question continues to echo: Why? Why shoot a man who posed no threat? Why return to fire additional shots when the money was already taken? Why extinguish a life so violently, leaving a family destroyed?
There are no answers—only heartbreak, disbelief, and a cry for justice. The cruelty of this act, captured on video, serves as a haunting reminder of the senseless violence that can forever alter the lives of innocent people. And in cases like this, where human decency was stripped away in a moment of horrific brutality, there is no excuse, no rationale—only tragedy.
A Community in Mourning
In the wake of Prince’s murder, the Lewisburg community has rallied around his grieving family. Candlelight vigils, online tributes, and messages of support have poured in. Strangers have turned into supporters, customers into mourners.
Community leaders, friends, and regular patrons of the Marathon station have shared their memories of Prince—his kindness, his generosity, his laughter—and they vow to keep his memory alive. Fundraisers are being organized to support his family during this unimaginable time, and citizens are urging law enforcement and prosecutors to pursue the strongest possible charges.
Final Thoughts
The killing of Paresh “Little Prince” Patel is a heartbreaking reminder of life’s fragility and the darkness that can exist in the world. But in the aftermath of this unspeakable loss, we also see the power of community, love, and collective resolve.
May Prince’s soul rest in peace, and may his family find strength in the outpouring of love that surrounds them. As the legal process moves forward, the Lewisburg community stands united in their demand for justice and in their commitment to honor the memory of a man who gave so much to so many.