We’re wired to believe that when we need help, someone will come through. But sometimes, help is a trap, used by predators to gain your trust. These two real-life stories show how quickly things can turn dangerous when someone fakes authority.
These two recent news stories remind us that danger doesn’t always come with a warning sign or a creepy vibe. Sometimes, it comes disguised as a fire inspector or a good Samaritan. In both cases, victims were approached by men posing as authority figures offering help. They trusted them. They got in the car. And they were assaulted.
Story #1 – Posing as a Fire Inspector
In St. Paul, Minnesota, a man allegedly kidnapped a teenage girl by pretending to be a fire inspector. The 13-year-old girl missed her bus and it was raining. Seeing his uniform, she thought he was a security officer. He offered to drive her to school, but instead drove her to his home where she was assaulted.
Story #2 – Impersonating Search and Rescue
In California, a woman hiking encountered a man she believed was part of search and rescue. He offered a ride to a nearby trail. Instead, she was kidnapped and physically assaulted. He had no connection to emergency services. He used her vulnerability to create an opportunity.
What These Stories Teach Us
Both victims did what many of us might do: they trusted someone who seemed to be there to help. Predators count on that trust and that’s where your mindset needs to shift.
It’s okay and necessary to be skeptical.
Ask questions. Demand proof. Real professionals won’t hesitate to show official identification or call a supervisor. Don’t feel obligated to get into a vehicle just because someone claims to be helping.
Never Get in the Car
This is the single biggest mistake that changes the outcome in situations like this. Getting into a stranger’s vehicle removes your control and shrinks your options drastically.
Instead:
- Ask them to call someone on your behalf.
- Move to a well-lit, populated area where you can wait safely.
- Use your phone’s emergency SOS feature or call a trusted contact.
Even if someone seems official, don’t get in the car! Real professionals will respect your caution.
Authority Doesn’t Equal Safety
Predators count on us to let our guard down around uniforms, badges, and confident behavior. But the truth is, bad people can use good roles to trick you. Always verify. Always question. You’re not being rude, you’re being smart.
Carry and Train with Self-Defense Tools
Whether you carry a firearm or not, having a self-defense plan and tools you trust is critical. Pepper spray, knives, and, of course, firearms can all be effective but only if you know how to use them under pressure.
- Practice drawing and deploying your tools quickly and confidently.
- Include situational awareness and decision-making drills in your training.
- Make your self-defense tools an extension of your daily carry mindset, not just a backup plan.
Final Thoughts
The victims in these stories did nothing wrong. The criminals alone are responsible. But these situations serve as a powerful reminder:
- Not everyone who offers help is trustworthy.
- Your first priority is to maintain control and situational awareness.
- You have every right to protect yourself, and preparation is key.
If you carry a firearm, combine that responsibility with knowledge, vigilance, and solid tactics to stay safe no matter the situation. Your mindset and training are your best defenses.
News sources:
St. Paul fire inspector kidnapped, attempted to sexually assault teen
Hiker sexually assaulted by man impersonating search and rescue official