The legacy of a good samaritan will live on in a new annual award in the City of Wilmington.
Mayor Dennis Williams established the award for Thomas “Cannibal” Cottingham Wednesday, who died while saving a mother and child from a man with a knife near Rodney Square in September.
In a statement, Williams said there’s no greater sacrifice than to give up your own life to save another and, “We must continue to recognize Mr. Cottingham for his bravery and his heroism as a good samaritan.”
Williams also attached a plaque honoring Cottingham to a Rodney Square bench this month – an idea Williams originally opposed.
Calvin Hooker has been charged with several felonies – including first degree murder – in the case.
The first recipient of the award will be named next year.