Wake held for man in fatal stabbing in Wilmington
WILMINGTON (WPVI) -- Police increased patrol Friday during a wake in Rodney Square for a man who was killed in a fatal stabbing.
People came out to pay their respects for 27-year-old Thomas Cottingham who died in Wilmington Monday night trying to save a young woman and her baby.
DART bus driver Renaldo Epps witnessed the incident as the woman fled onto his bus, Cottingham helping her with the stroller.
"He was also talking to the assailant, 'You don't know her. Leave her alone. Leave her alone' " said Epps.
Epps said the man, identified as 25-year-old Calvin Hooker III, then stabbed Cottingham in the throat in front of the bus door, and proceeded to stab him twice in the back.
"Mr. Cottingham went to go run and once he fell, the assailant then got on top of him and repeatedly stabbed him," said Epps.
Epps called 911 as people fled onto the bus to get away from the horrific attack as it unfolded.
He was awarded a Department of Transportation Challenge Medal Thursday for his actions.
"Mr Cottingham's the real person here that should be honored," said Epps.
Wilmington Mayor Dennis P. Williams agrees.
"Oh it was heroic. You know most people don't get involved in situations at all. Won't even pick up the phone and call the police," said Mayor Williams. "But for a man to give his life, I take my hat off to him and his family."
Cottingham's heroic act is being recognized nationally.
A tribute to Cottingham is posted on the Insane Clown Posse website. He was a big fan of the musical duo.
Hooker has been charged with first-degree murder and other related crimes.
Wilmington's Police Chief said the mounted patrol will help out for about a month or more, and other units will help in other parts of the city.
However, those who frequent Rodney Square said they still have some concerns.
"Police presence should be up here all day every day," said Phillip Jones of Wilmington.
