Jacksonville, Florida – A Jacksonville group is offering a safe place for women who like to walk outdoors in the wake of the death of a Georgia nursing student.
Moms on the Run meets to run at various locations around Jacksonville so runners don't have to run alone.
Laken Hope Riley, 22, who was studying nursing at Augusta University, went for a run Thursday morning. When her friend told police she wasn't coming back, officers immediately began searching for her and found her on the University of Georgia campus in a wooded area near Herrick Lake, a popular trail for runners and walkers. Found a dead body.
Suspect Jose Ibarra, 26, was taken into custody on suspicion of Riley's murder.
“It's an unfortunate situation in the world we live in today. I wish it wasn't the case, but it is. That little bit of extra preparation can mean the difference between something happening or not. ,” said Tom Hackney, crime and safety analyst at News4JAX.
Amie Cord, a volunteer coach with the group, said it was frustrating that women couldn't exercise alone without fear of injury.
“It would be great if we could figure out a way to stop that from happening in the first place. All we can do now is protect ourselves, right? So I'm afraid I'm always running with a mace.” Cord said.
Hackney said running with mace is a good way to add a level of protection to your runs. He also recommended running in pairs and having a responsible partner check in if you need to run alone.
“Know where you are, keep your head up on your shoulders, and always be aware of your surroundings as you enter and exit. As you stretch before starting your run, be aware of who is around you and whether you are Be careful where you are. Be careful where you park. It's just general safety,” Hackney said.
For more information about this group, visit momsontherun.com.
WJXT News4JAX Copyright 2024 – All rights reserved.
