Excuses? Or legitimate fears?

[mtkitchn]

Well, I haven't ridden in Phoenix for a few weeks since it's so doggone hot. Just when I think I'll give it a go anyway, one of the serial killers we have down here shoots a bicyclist! My husband doesn't want me out riding (since I ride alone in the dark to beat the worst of the heat), and I'm starting to wonder if it's worth it myself with all the crazies down here. Am I just feeding myself excuses? Should I stick to the gym for a while?

[suhollyberry]

Yikes! That's scary!

Why don't you just try to go earlier in the morning and find a riding partner. Also, stay in more populated areas. Maybe that will help?

[mtkitchn]

Hi suhollyberry (nice handle....makes me think of Christmas!),
I've been looking without luck for a riding partner since I started riding ( I ride weekday mornings, usually Tues-Thurs). I actually live in a well populated area, and the shootings are occurring in well populated areas. I might have to change my work schedule so I can ride on the weekends with the bike club. I guess I shouldn't let fear run my life, but what to do with the husband??? Can't get him out on a bike.....and can't convince him that I'll be safe....

[mimitabby]

Have i got this right, someone is specifically shooting at bicyclists?

[Cassandra_Cain]

Hey - I would never tell you to feel safe or unsafe - I mean that's a very personal choice obviously.

Still, one of the realities of living in a big city, is of course, crime. It happens every day, yet we carry on with our lives, oftentimes largely unaware. Ditto with accidents and so on.

I would ride in whatever environment/circumstance you feel comfortable with - if it is group rides only, so be it, or if you feel good solo, then go for it.

[mtkitchn]

Hi Mimi,
This guy is shooting at lots of people, it seems he just chose a bicyclist for his latest victim. We also have a serial rapist/murderer running around as well, so there are two locos out there (as well as the usual big city crazies).
Cassandra,
Good advice. I will probably stick to the gym while it's so hot anyway, and maybe get back out on the roads when it cools down and I can ride during the day.....

Thanks for the replies, ladies!

[dobielover1]

I don't think a crazy with a gun is considered an excuse...I'd worry if you didn't question your safety.

[hsmpcycle]

I heard about this on the news. IS this individual targeting people in a specific area of the city or at random locations?

I think the gym is a wise choice. I can't imagine one minute riding and enjoying the experience and the next thing I know I am on the ground with a bullet in my body. That just makes my skin crawl.

[Brandy]

I don't think that's an excuse...it actually sounds like a smart move to stay off the streets right now. That is so scary. I read an article when some of the forum members were talking about it a few weeks ago...is he still confined to a general area?

If I was in Arizona right now I'd drive up to Sedona and get some cooler riding in for a day...of course, I'll use anything as an excuse to visit Sedona.

[maillotpois]

I think the gym is sounding pretty good....

[Brandy]

Wow...that latest shooting took place right near the house where my dh lived when we met. Too scary, I think I'd be too nervous to ride.

http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepu...shoot0725.html

[chickwhorips]

is this new shooter also the baseline killer or another one?

haven't heard this one yet.

wow i'm glad i moved when i did!

[CycleTherapy]

Chickw...
Two separate "perps"....serial shooter and a serial rapist.

[chickwhorips]

Chickw...
Two separate "perps"....serial shooter and a serial rapist.

same area of the valley or different?

[Geonz]

And does the dude have preferred sniping times?