Predator looking for easy prey, saw an older person alone and thought an easy mark. Good job saying no, otherwise your post may have been different or by a family member for you with a different outcome.

Agree with others that you should notify the store. They may have some security video of the lot and they can be on the lookout. Agree that it was someone looking for an elderly 'mark'.

quote:

Originally posted by AZSigs:
You did the right thing.

I agree 100%.

Tell him to stop being lazy. If he lives right over there he can walk right over there.

BTW I would expect someone that just locked themselves out of their car to point out the said car when making contact in that way.

I'm willing to help others out and have but that one doesn't pass the smell test.

I know four people ,in the 75-80's that would have never given a second thought

to getting out of their vehicle to talk it over,
Do some additional fact finding,
Maybe
Offer him the cell phone,
Offer to call triple A,

Even grab a coat hanger
And try to Jimmy the door open.

It drives me nuts,
Getting out of there was the right way

I would never give a ride to anyone anywhere that I didn't know and there are a few people I do know and wouldn't give them a ride anywhere either. Who knows what intentions this individual may have had but best not to put yourself in harms way. You made the correct call by saying no.

You're much nicer than me. The last time I was approached, the bum reached out to put a hand on me. I went ape-shit. Bums need to get away from people.

As others- No problem, you did right.
- He lived within sight.
- It wasn't even dark.
- There was No Immediate Threat to him.
- He didn't have a cell phone to call a friend?
- Insurance provides for help when locked out.
- The store deals with such issues all the time.

Good instincts on your part. Thank Them and continue to listen to them.

No fault, No foul.

I had that happen to me about 3x in my town. I always tell them I will call the police who are very helpful and will take care of their issues. They always do an about face and take off.

You did right. Now way I would have let this sumbitch in my car. Trust your instincts.

In these times, someone leaving a key in their ignition is not enough reason to risk your life.
Your primary need is to get home.

You got to go home without getting hurt or having to hurt someone. That’s good enough.
I too had a similar surprise a few months ago. It went like your encounter did. Now, I’m parking away from everyone else and walkIng a few extra steps to avoid getting surprised again. They all seem to blind side you by approaching from behind don’t they? I also try to maintain 360° Of awareness while loading the car or getting in it now.

The local SO around me has the tools and expertise to get the door open. I'd have called them, but not unlocked my door. I would have called them after he left and advised there was a stranger they need to check out.
Keep your eyes up so nobody can sneak up next time too.

quote:

Originally posted by Prefontaine:
I do not provide rides only lead. That would have been my answer. Same thing when the bums downtown pander for money. “I don’t carry cash or change, only lead”. They hear that and do a 180 instantly.

sure they do

You did what I'd have done. In my mind, anyone worth a damn knows someone who can come get them. I'll exclude the elderly or freshly injured from this. I've picked a few friends up over the years. Some of the best advice I've received about hitchhikers is this "They're walking for a reason"

I've also walked plenty of miles when I didnt have a ride and didnt want to inconvenience someone. They can walk too. Its not far, right?

Its unfortunate that we live in a society where we cant trust random strangers but you can't. If you feel a touch bad about that it just means youre a good person but you made the smart choice.

I don't trust anyone anymore. I rather inconvenience a good person than get myself, hurt, robbed or killed if I chose wrong.

George, George, George

quote:

Originally posted by George43:
I'm 77

You passed the "old enough to know better" mark 50 years ago.

Nope nope nope, the good samaritan in us wants to help, JMO, but in todays climate, NFW....

You did the right thing.

Walking never killed anyone. Guy wasn't in any danger and you have no obligation to make it convenient for strangers.

you never know

be vigilant

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