I wonder if he was carrying?
Even if - the best protection is to be aware of your surroundings, and remember - not much good ever happens after midnight.
He was probably obeying the law and was unarmed... It is horrible that in these times victims can’t defend themselves, nor does the court do justice and hang the offenders.
Situational awareness is every bit as important as the gun in your holster when it comes to self defense. You have to arm yourself with both.