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This also made me sick today, as I live in Atlanta and this is a local story.
This couple was the salt of the earth. They were very active and aware of things, and were obviously set up.
Mr. Runion ran a local program through their church where he repaired used bicycles, and he and Mrs. Runion distributed them to needy kids throughout the Southeast. They were also both involved with collecting clothing for needy families, and delivered those along with the bikes.
As soon as their disappearance was on the news Friday night, I had a very bad feeling. They drove down to a rural area of South Georgia to meet this guy.
I sold a bike on craigslist a while ago, and I will never use the service again. I'm done.
As for the killer, well, I think it's time to bring back Ol' Sparky.
JMatl, I'm very sorry for your community's loss. The Runions sound like wonderful people.
While terrible, there are some ways to protect yourself in these transactions.
1) meet at neutral place
2) do not deal in large amounts of cash unless you are meeting at a bank or police station branch
3) careful posting wanted ads
4) if buying a car, GET A VIN # first and see if its legit
Another tip of mine is when you meet in public, do not be the first one there and do not leave first.
Tell them to meet you at X on the bench out front. Tell them to text you when they arrive. Wait for them to be on the bench first. This way you can scope the scene and see if you want to proceed. You can just tell when someone is sketchy. I had a guy meet me at a very public place once but he was sitting on the bench wearing black pants, black hoodie with the hood over his head and I couldn't even see his face (and it was 100 degrees out). I saw him from afar and just left.
Then when you leave, even if the transaction goes well let them walk away first. You don't want to risk being followed. Make sure you see where they go and they don't know where you go. I realize this advice is hard if both parties are following it haha but it's worth mentioning.
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