gemini wrote:
So, what would make someone think it couldn't or won't happen to them? The old worn out phrase: Better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it, couldn’t ring truer.
You are so correct. I have repeatedly told my daughters that no one wakes up one morning and says "You know, my life is so boring. I think I want to be raped and murdered today". I have always been told to consider "could it happen?". If that answer is "yes", then you take actions and accept responsibility to minimize the probability.
Most people never think can/will be a victim until it happens to them. Too many times the outcome is not nearly as good as it was for your friend. This situation could have gone bad in so many ways. Thank goodness your friend was willing and able to protect himself and his property.