NEW YORK -- Lenny Robinson lost his life on a Maryland highway last night. It was an accident involving his custom-made Batmobile.

Robinson was an extraordinary man who became extraordinary the moment he put on a cape and cowl.

Some superheroes are born. Others find their calling later in life. Lenny B. Robinson was the latter.

But this "Batman's" mission wasn't to fight crime, it was to put smiles on the faces of children.

Lenny Robinson donned a cape and cowl not to frighten criminals but to bring joy to the hearts of children fighting life-threatening illnesses. Courtesy Hope for Henry Foundation / CBS News

Robinson dedicated his life to visiting kids who were fighting life-threatening diseases. But he had fans of all ages.

"I love you, man," said one supporter. "You're the best! You're doing a great job, awesome job!"

"I want you to do me a favor, okay, and get better, okay," he told one kid. "And that will make me very happy."

Fourteen years ago the Baltimore native sold his cleaning business. He used the proceeds to buy a Lamborghini, which he modified to resemble a Batmobile. Robinson became internationally famous when a video was posted of him being pulled over by police.

"A black Lamborghini and a driver dressed as Batman," said a cop on dashcam video. Instead of issuing a ticket, the officers asked for a picture.

He later bought a replica of the Batmobile from the 1960s TV show.

There's no way of knowing how many lives this Caped Crusader touched. But judging by the number of photos on social media, there were plenty.

"At the end of the day, you must ask yourself, did I make a difference? And the answer had better be yes."

Asked -- and answered.

Click here to learn more about a documentary on Lenny Robinson