ROANOKE, Va. – Eliza Fletcher was a 34-year-old teacher who was kidnapped during a run in Memphis last week, and on Monday, she was found dead.
In light of her death, the driving community is rallying together.
James DeMarco, owner of RunAbout Sports in Blacksburg, and Robin Lewis with Fleet Feet weighed in on the tragedy.
“That poor lady was just doing something she should have enjoyed,” DeMarco said. “It’s something that gave her some sanity and helped her get on with her day.”
“It really hits home with us,” Lewis said. “We personally know two women who were attacked while running and they were in the middle of the day. Fortunately, they survived, but you never know what can happen.”
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This could have happened anywhere, but there are ways you can stay safe while running.
“The bottom line is you want to let your loved ones know where you are,” DeMarco said. “Where you’re going, where you’re running, and when you expect to be back, and then track that over time.”
Apps can help family and friends keep track of your location.
“There are apps that you just push a button to notify your loved ones, to let EMS and the police know, ‘Hey, I’m hurt’ or ‘Hey, I’ve been attacked or something’s wrong,'” DeMarco said. .
The days are getting darker faster and Lewis said light is key.
“There will be a lot of women running in the dark,” Lewis said. “It’s really important to always make sure you have 360 degrees of light and reflection.”
Experts said that if you are attacked while jogging, it is important to identify your attacker if possible.
“You must always make eye contact. Because if they see you looking at them, they know you can identify them,” Lewis said.
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Carrying a baton, portable sirens, and not listening to music while running are all other ways to protect yourself.
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