News Summary
In an act of bravery in Columbia, SC, Kennis Goodman intervened during a shocking stabbing at a Walgreens. His quick actions likely saved a life, as he struggled with the assailant, leading to the arrest of the attacker. Goodman, a DoorDash driver and Airforce veteran, remains humble despite the admiration from the community and law enforcement for his courageous response amidst chaos.
Columbia’s Hero: A Good Samaritan Steps In to Save the Day
In a dramatic turn of events last Tuesday, the lively city of Columbia, South Carolina, became the backdrop for an act of courage that has left the community buzzing with admiration. The incident occurred at around 11:15 a.m. at a Walgreens store located at 4467 Devine Street, where a peaceful shopping day was interrupted by a shocking stabbing.
A Random Act of Violence
Kennis Goodman, a local DoorDash delivery driver and proud U.S. Airforce veteran, was making his first delivery of the day when he stumbled upon a scene that no one should ever have to witness. A man, later identified as 47-year-old Jermaine Nedd, suddenly launched a vicious attack on another customer with a sharp object. The police have indicated that this attack appeared to be completely random and unprovoked, catching everyone, including Goodman, by surprise.
Bravery in Action
Goodman, who described Nedd as a towering figure at 6’1” and weighing 230 pounds, didn’t let the size difference deter him. Instead, he sprang into action when he saw the horrifying scene unfold before him. With no thought for his own safety, Goodman rushed over and kicked Nedd off the victim, engaging in a struggle to disarm him. The chaos in the store was palpable, with significant amounts of blood marking the scene.
The Victim’s Condition
As a result of this shocking attack, the victim sustained multiple stab wounds and remains in critical condition, yet fortunately survived the traumatic event. The Columbia Police Department arrived soon after to apprehend Nedd, who now faces serious charges, including attempted murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. The swift arrival of law enforcement undoubtedly prevented further harm.
Community Recognition
Goodman’s heroic actions did not go unnoticed by local authorities. Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook praised him for his quick response, suggesting that the situation could have escalated into a far worse tragedy if Goodman hadn’t intervened. The community has rallied around Goodman, dubbing him a “good Samaritan” for his bravery in standing up against violence and potentially saving lives.
Reflections on a Disturbing Experience
Though hailed as a hero by many, Goodman remains humble about his actions, describing the event as a “God-ordained experience.” Following the incident, he bravely acknowledged the emotional toll it took on him, expressing feelings of fear and trauma. Realizing the importance of mental health support, Goodman is seeking assistance to cope with the aftereffects of this harrowing encounter. Additionally, he has pledged to continue checking on the employees of Walgreens to offer his support and encourage a sense of community healing.
A Community Stronger Together
This incident serves as a reminder of both the fragility of safety in our everyday lives and the strength of human spirit. While the victim continues to fight for recovery, the story of Kennis Goodman’s bravery shines bright in Columbia as a testament to the good that can emerge even in dark times. The community stands united in gratitude, knowing that in moments of crisis, heroes can indeed emerge from the most unexpected places.
Looking Ahead
As Columbia wrestles with the aftermath of this shocking event, it’s clear that the incident has sparked conversations about safety and community support. Many residents are reflecting on how they can contribute to a safer environment for everyone. With Goodman setting a powerful example, it may inspire others to step up and look out for one another in their daily lives amidst life’s uncertainties.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX
- Wikipedia: Safety
- WIS TV
- Google Search: Columbia South Carolina violence
- The State
- Google Scholar: Good Samaritan Law
- ABC Columbia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Columbia South Carolina
- WACH
- Google News: Columbia Walgreens stabbing
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
