[Jeff Head]

I'm sure, those that stood there could not imagine that they were on their own.

That they were ... and they had been conditioned to hesitate ... or worse, to not recognize the situation when it was painfully and immediately upon them.

Thus the terrible and horrific lesson for us all.

[visualops]

conditioned to hesitate

So very very true, sadly so.

Yours is a very important and timely observation, one we should all take to heart.
There are very serious happenings afoot, and we must all be vigilant.

[artisan001]

Thanks for the ping, Jeff.

It pays to be observant.
I saw that some were questioning the veracity of the account because the account is too well written.

I think that the author had a cool enough head to realise what was going on, get out, and then try to help others.

He probably also has the presence of mind to write down his story in a coherent fashion.