Spider-Man in Arkansas: A real hero helped a man in a wheelchair
While the blockbuster “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” hits theaters only on July 31, a real hero in a Spider-Man costume has already appeared in Arkansas. He completed a mission that won’t make it into the movie trailer: helping a man in a wheelchair safely cross the road. As they say, with great power comes great responsibility, and apparently, a red Jeep.
How it happened
The incident occurred at the busy intersection of Caraway Road and Highland Drive in the city of Jonesboro. A man in a wheelchair was trying to cross the road, moving slowly, and drivers had to wait. Suddenly, a red Jeep Wrangler stopped, and someone in a full Spider-Man costume got out, heading straight for the crosswalk.
Spider-Man grabbed the handles of the wheelchair and helped the man cross the road before oncoming traffic got the green light. After that, he ran back to the Jeep, carefully watching the traffic so his own rescue wouldn’t cause an accident.
Who was under the mask
The local hero under the Spider-Man costume was later identified as Chris Hellenthal, known on Instagram as @neaspidey. According to local media reports, Hellenthal works at the nearby Ultimate Air Trampoline Park and was in costume for Superhero Day. However, this was not a one-time performance: the employee often dresses up as Spider-Man, bringing smiles to children and adults alike.
The Jonesboro Police Department posted the video on social media and praised the hero, noting that “red light or green light, there is always time to do the right thing.” Local residents responded approvingly, reminding that not all heroes wear capes. Some drive a Jeep.
Reaction and context
This act was not just a random act of kindness but also a reminder of how small actions can make a big difference. Chris Hellenthal, who usually entertains children at the park, used his costume to genuinely help a person. The police, by posting the video, emphasized the importance of mutual aid in the community, and local residents supported the hero, noting that real heroes are often unseen but always nearby. This incident also shows how pop culture can inspire real good deeds, turning an ordinary person into a symbol of hope for others.