Prior to getting in Lawrence Singleton’s blue van, Mary Vincent was warned by two other hitchhikers to not get in the car (per Open Ceilings Magazine). Despite having room for multiple passengers, Singleton insisted that he just had room for Vincent. As she was rather desperate to get to her grandfather’s home, Vincent unfortunately decided to travel with Singleton. She got in the passenger seat of the van and drove off down Interstate 5.
After a short amount of time, Vincent started to come to the realization that accepting this ride may have been a mistake. She did eventually fall asleep as Singleton continued to drive, but when she woke up, she realized that they were no longer traveling in the right direction (per All That’s Interesting). She then demanded that Singleton turn around, which he did, but her unease with the situation continued to grow. When they pulled over for a bathroom break, Singleton attacked her as she was tying her shoe and tied her up in the back of the van.
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If you or anyone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available. Visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website or contact RAINN’s National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
