Utah
‘It really, truly scared me’: Utah runners talk safety following Eliza Fletcher’s killing
Estimated learn time: 2-3 minutes
SALT LAKE CITY — Utah runners are talking up about security following the loss of life of Memphis jogger Eliza Fletcher.
The 34-year-old trainer was kidnapped and killed earlier this month throughout an early morning run. Members of the operating group “Girls of the Wasatch” stated Fletcher’s story is one they will relate to.
“4 thirty a.m. was the time that she may slot in her run earlier than she went to show youngsters, and 5:30 is my time,” runner Monika Hoke stated.
Nicole Hamic stated Fletcher’s tragic loss of life began a dialog on the paths and operating routes.
“Now we have to, I believe particularly as ladies, arise for being protected, assist individuals know easy methods to really feel snug on the market so you may proceed to push your self,” she stated.
Of their operating group, they discuss provides they carry and steps they take to remain secure whereas operating. They preserve first support kits readily available, pepper spray gel, water, snacks, reflective vests, sounding alarms and geographic trackers.
“I at all times attempt to put on vibrant colours or a variety of colours, and I say ‘hello’ to everybody I go,” longtime runner Caroline Web page stated.
Hamic stated she at all times tells her husband the place she’s going and when she expects to get again. She encourages ladies to do the identical with their associate or a buddy. Hoke stated she makes use of a headlamp throughout her early morning runs.
“I put it on ultra-bright mode once I’m at a street and I wiggle it at individuals,” she stated.
The runners stated they mourn the lack of an harmless lady’s life, however keep on her legacy by ending her run.
“There’s by no means a time for us to throw within the towel and to cease doing what we love,” Hamic stated.
The runners stated their neighborhood is loud, and so they’re calling on the lads to talk up about security, too.
“I do want that there was extra vocalization from the male neighborhood as a result of they’re accountable as effectively for sustaining a secure atmosphere,” Hoke stated.