There are still more questions than answers in the case surrounding Ricki Taylor's sudden death. Palestine Police said there have been an uptick in calls from people who want to know how they can protect themselves, which is why they're planning self-defense classes for people this summer.
"We're not talking about living in fear, but we are talking about living aware," Lt. Gabriel Green said.
It's been nearly a week since the death of Ricki Taylor and while the community continues to mourn, the Palestine Police Department is working to make sure something like this doesn’t happen again.
"We've been getting a lot of messages from people that are afraid and we don't want our people to be afraid. We want them to have solutions. We want them to have answers."
Police are stepping up their protective services, with self -defense classes in the works for people of all ages and backgrounds.
"We want you to have options that will apply to everybody, whether your socioeconomic background, whatever it is, you have an option to protect yourself and your family."
They plan to have the classes up and running before the end of summer, making them free to the public, so that they're prepared and know how to react in dangerous situations.
"We already have the equipment. It's just a matter of making sure we have the instructors. So, at this point in time, we are researching what would be the best class for our area and then we're going to go with one."
But in the meantime, there are a few tips you can keep in mind. Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu instructor Colin Nicholas said the most important thing is being aware.
"If you have headphones on or a hood and you’re looking down, typically you're a much easier target. People come up behind you," Nichols said.
Nichols said the best way to protect yourself is to stay away.
"Keeping distance is always the best thing that you can do. Try and avoid the situation and run. That's always the best scenario."
But if that's not possible, Nichols said everyday items can easily be used in defense if necessary.
"Most people carry around things that can be used fairly easily as weapons, most notably is keys. Put keys in your hands, go for vital points. Remember, in a self-defense situation, there are no rules," Nichols said.
While the classes are still in the works, according to Palestine Police, the dates and times will be made available on their website and Facebook page as soon as possible.