Utah runners are speaking up about safety following the abduction and killing of Memphis jogger Eliza Fletcher.
An avid runner, Fletcher, 34, was allegedly abducted Friday around 4:20 a.m., while jogging near the University of Memphis, according to police.
Surveillance footage captured Fletcher being forced into a dark-colored SUV by a man now identified by police as 38-year-old Cleotha Abston, who police allege murdered Fletcher.
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Abston was arrested Saturday after he was linked to DNA found at the crime scene, according to police.
On Monday, Fletcher’s body was discovered by authorities in a neighborhood about seven miles from where she was allegedly kidnapped.
While Fletcher’s death is the most recent, high-profile example of violence committed against a woman who is exercising outdoors, “Women of the Wasatch” said Fletcher’s story is one they can relate to.
“Four thirty a.m. was the time that she could fit in her run before she went to teach kids, and 5:30 is my time,” runner Monika Hoke said.
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Nicole Hamic said Fletcher’s tragic death started a conversation on the trails and running routes.
“We have to, I think especially as women, stand up for being protected, help people know how to feel comfortable out there so you can continue to push yourself,” she said.
In their running group, they talk about supplies they bring and steps they take to stay safe while running. They keep first aid kits on hand, pepper spray gel, water, snacks, reflective vests, sounding alarms and geographic trackers.
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