I agree, statistics change nothing about the realities for individuals in the actual situation. Killed by a pit bull, killed by a wolf, killed by a thug, what's the real difference to the victim?
Just my way of commenting on what GB pointed out re predators and awareness, wherever you might be. Harsh as it may seem, folks who, out of situational ignorance, minimal first hand experience, or those with a "cross-my fingers can't happen here" mindset, make it easier for the predators, whatever and wherever they might be, and I believe they have some responsibility for the emotional distress caused by a worst case scenario,if/when it happens.
In any case, even assuming the teacher was fully aware of the risks, was armed and prepared, and defended herself vigorously, the end result could very well have been the same and the kids would still be suffering the loss of a beloved teacher, and local people would have had a wake up call.
And some folks, like the "defenders of wildlife" would call it an unfortunate and rare occurrence and continue full ahead with their activities - all we can hope is that they find themselves in a similar situation as the guy who found his true destiny as grizzly (or was it a brown bear?) scat.
And repeating GB's point: "Walking along, jogging or whatever with you head up your butt blissfully unaware of what's going on around you is a short cut to a nasty end of life encounter. It happens somewhere every day. Lots of places are not the sort to give you a second chance when you walk around in blissful ignorance."
In the meantime, (Sourdough says it about the men of the village) it is up to each individual to defend themselves and their loved ones, and go about things in a quiet manner, and not to make a big deal out of it.
