[Brian S. Fitzgerald]

Friend of Marine on the run: 'He's like MacGyver'

http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/01/16/marine.friend/

(CNN) -- A woman who once worked with fugitive Marine Cpl. Cesar Laurean and the pregnant Marine he allegedly killed said Wednesday that Laurean has "MacGyver" skills and training that could enable him to adapt to life on the run.

A warrant has been issued for Marine Cpl. Cesar Laurean, who's been charged with murder in Lauterbach's death.

The Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, woman requested that she remain anonymous.

Earlier Wednesday, an FBI spokesman said the agency suspects Laurean may have returned to his native Mexico.

The woman, who left the Marines in December, described Laurean as well-trained to adapt to his situation.

He can rig just about anything -- as could the lead character in the "MacGyver" television series of 1985 to 1992 -- is strong, a fast runner and can handle weapons, including an M-16, she said.

She said Laurean is quiet but social, and has many friends. He often spoke to her about his 18-month-old daughter.

[Brian S. Fitzgerald]

"The woman, who left the Marines in December, described Laurean as well-trained to adapt to his situation."

One wonders why he was given a job behind a desk.

[Girlene]

The woman said she has been a friend of Laurean for about four years; they were employed in the Personnel Department at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Did this woman know him in highschool? Is CNN sure she's not a poser, or did they get the number of years wrong? She goes on to say quite a bit about Lauterbach, as well.