Watch What Happens When a 15-Year-Old Teen Apologizes to a Widow His Father Mugged

78-year-old Tona Herndon was laying flowers at the grave of her recently buried husband of 60 years, when the unspeakable happened — Herndon was mugged by a male attacker.

After TheBlaze highlighted the incident in an article, the story went viral and stirred outrage across the nation. However, it's conclusion will instead surely warm your heart.

Enter 15-year-old Christian Lunsford who was watching television when he saw his father's mugshot appear on the screen as the man who committed the heinous act of robbing Herndon.

Lunsford told CBS News he immediately recognized his estranged dad "in detail" and felt obligated to do what he could to make things right.

A 15-year-old teen apologizes to a 78-year-old widow his father mugged. (Credit: CBS News)

The teen said he barely speaks to his father, who he says is in-and-out of jail, but noted that he had just received $250 from him to attend a band camp. Lunsford said he could not keep the money in good conscience.

Instead, the 15-year-old phoned Herndon and met her in a church parking lot. There, he apologized to the 78-year-old widow on behalf of his father.

"It needed to be done," Lunsford told CBS News. "She needed an apology from somebody. If I didn't apologize, who would?"

The teen then surprised Herndon with the only cash he had to offer.

"He gave me $250 for my band trip, but I'm not sure if it was yours or however he got it, but I'd feel bad if I didn't give it to you," he explained to her.

Watch the video, courtesy of CBS News:

Herndon, accepted the money from the teen. Then, she gave it back.

"I want you to take your band trip," Herndon told Lunsford, noting it "was a joy" to help the teen.

Afterwards, Herndon reflected on the incident saying, "I feel more like my life still has a purpose."

(H/T: CBS News)

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