'It Has To Be Something You Think About': Murder Of Georgia College Student While Running Increases Concerns For Jogger Safety In Tulsa

People feel a lot of things while running--it could be fatigue, peace or, of course, that runner’s high.

“It's harder to get to than people think it is," said runner Courtney Busse-Jones.

“It's kind of just time for myself, and I can just focus and kind of zone out for a little bit,” said Jennifer, who also runs. 

But one thing they shouldn’t be feeling is unsafe.

“I just know I have to be a little more on guard,” Busse-Jones said. 

The disappearance and murder of a 22-year-old college student while she was out on a run has sparked some worry in people.

“Investigation suggests that they had no relationship; he did not know her at all; I think this was a crime of opportunity,” said University of Georgia Police Chief Jeff Clark.

Police say Laken Riley was jogging during the day and was later found dead near a lake at the University of Georgia’s campus.

“It's very sad for someone to just be doing a hobby and then something like that happens,” said Jennifer. 

"You can do the best you can to try and be safe, but you can’t guarantee what other people are going to do,” Busse-Jones said.

Courtney and Jennifer run outside often, and usually just by themselves. They both say they’re taking extra safety precautions like peering over their shoulders, turning down their music, and running with their phones.

"Unfortunately, if I see someone coming my direction, I just make sure that I’m out of grabbing distance,” said Busse-Jones.

“You have to be on more high awareness all the time when you’re doing something that should be relaxing and fun and enjoyable,” Jennifer said. 

They both stress the importance of being vigilant while exercising so a simple workout doesn’t turn into a tragedy.

“It has to be something that you think about,” said Busse-Jones. 

26-year-old Jose Antonio Ibarra was arrested in connection to the death.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement says Ibarra entered the country illegally in 2022. But police have not linked his immigration status to the crime.