I am waking up to the ringing of my phone. I glance at the clock realizing it is time for me to get dressed. I reach over to answer the phone and I hear my mother’s voice. I manage to hear only the few first words. I listen to what deep down I already knew. The very first words that come out of her mouth are “they found her body.”
I freeze, while fear spreads through me and chills run up my arms. My mother goes on to describe what she heard on the news about Carrie Yoder’s death, while I sit in silence. I am reminded of a horror movie.
I recall watching movies and reading books full of serial killers. Movies such as “Psycho” run through my mind. Although the truth may be very different, it still reminds you of those movies because people may think that evil only happens in movies and fiction novels. Actually, sometimes it becomes our reality also. The phrase “it will never happen to me” has become temporarily nonexistent. Now, women may find themselves watching every person that passes them by, watching over their shoulders, staying inside at night and stopping normal activities in their personal lives.
Not only are people facing the fear of war, but now a more close and personal fear troubles the residents of Baton Rouge, including other areas also. On Thursday, The Reveille had a special edition full of stories and columns on news of the serial killer and the increase of safety. The articles include what Baton Rouge police are doing for more security, updates on the task force, Chancellor Emmert’s comments and thoughts and more news on other unsolved murders. Over the past 22 years, there have been several women murdered, but their cases still remain unsolved. Of these victims, five have been linked to the serial killer.
Since then, security has been more alert. LSUPD is now patrolling the streets more at night and you may see some during the day also. Capt. Shaw said in a story yesterday that LSUPD plans on adding two hours to officers’ shifts. There are at least three shifts on duty. Also, campus transit picks students up and brings them to their destinations. According to the article, the University hopes to have more cameras and lights on campus. Although this is evident, students still may not feel safe. Not only is it up to the police to secure our campus, but it is up to the students and Baton Rouge residents as well. The Baton Rouge police department will offer self-defense classes. In addition, gun sales have increased. More women are buying not only Mace, but also more dangerous weapons: firearms. Because guns are not allowed on campus, these self-defense classes may substitute the need for a gun.
Another thing that may help people be more aware is the FBI’s serial killer profile. This profile includes aspects of the serial killer’s personality and methods. It points out specific actions the serial killer may do around others either at work or home. This profile gives an in-depth idea of how this person may react to certain things such as having anxiety, anger, impulsiveness and lack of empathy. It also describes how his relationship may be with women and how he interacts with his victims. The profile was released so people may read it and be able to report anything suspicious.
These ideas combine to show that our community is making an effort to provide safety and a way to catch the serial killer. In order to make sure we are secure, the campus community needs to stay away from being comfortable. Even though females are being targeted, males should still take this just as seriously. The patterns of the serial killer are not very distinct, so no one should get too relaxed. To be aware of everything may save more lives.