David Lindsey, 53, of Knoxville, KY, was discovered lying in a Walgreens parking lot at about 3 a.m. He had been shot in the head and leg. Lindsey was transported to hospital, where he lapsed into a coma and later died.

A few hours later, police got a call from a local car lot owner who reported that a robber had held him up at gunpoint. When he produced a gun of his own the thief fled, leaving his weapon and driver’s license.

Nineteen-year-old Kane Stackhouse, who had no prior criminal record, was charged with the murder of David Lindsey. Apparently Stackhouse needed a vehicle and may have demanded Lindsey’s “truck keys.” Lindsey may have handed over his tractor-trailer keys, thinking Stackhouse wanted his cargo. When he found the keys didn’t fit Lindsey’s pickup, Stackhouse came back and shot him.

There is no way to completely prevent random tragedy. But there are a few ways you may be able to avoid violence, or defuse the situation.

Keep alert and try to be aware when something’s wrong. If you’re threatened, enter a public space. Reduce your “target potential” by not carrying much cash, and as few credit cards as possible. Don’t wear conspicuous jewelry.

If you’re robbed, co-operate. Most robbers don’t want trouble. Give the robber what he or she wants and that’ll likely be it. Resist only if it becomes apparent the person intends to harm you – otherwise you could be unnecessarily risking injury or death.

Source: WATE Channel 6 Television, Knoxville Tennessee, November 11, 2006