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Columbia honors Good Samaritan Kenneth Goodman with key to the city after Walgreens attack
Summary
The City of Columbia presented Kenneth Goodman with a formal recognition and the key to the city after he intervened during a violent attack at a Walgreens; councilmembers and the police chief praised his actions and noted the victim is now in rehab.
The City of Columbia on Tuesday recognized Kenneth Goodman as a Good Samaritan after he intervened during a violent attack at a Walgreens, presenting him with a ceremonial key to the city and public commendations from council members and the police chief.
Mayor Daniel J. Rickerman invited Goodman to the podium and said the city wanted to honor Goodman for stepping in and checking on employees after the incident. “Not only did he act in the time, he acted afterwards and continued to do it,” Rickerman said, praising Goodman’s willingness to return to check on store employees.
Chief Holbrook of the Columbia Police Department called Goodman’s actions “a heroic act” and said that without his quick intervention, “we would be talking about completely different circumstances today.” Goodman, who identified himself as a DoorDash driver who happened to be at the store, said he was “thankful for the recognition” and credited his actions to his faith.
Several council members spoke from the dais, thanking Goodman for his service and noting the community impact of his intervention. Councilmember Miss Herbert praised Goodman’s actions as an example of veterans’ continued service; Councilmember Mister Brown said the episode highlighted community solidarity.
Mayor Rickerman told Goodman the council hoped he would consider moving into the city and formally presented the key to the city on behalf of Columbia’s residents, city manager, police chief and council. Goodman said the victim of the attack is out of the hospital and currently in rehab, and he has remained in contact with that person.
The recognition concluded with council members inviting Goodman to participate further in city activities and assistance from city staff on relocation and employment resources; no formal policy action accompanied the presentation.
