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Community reacts to Fairfield murder

Reported by: Beverly Tanner
Last Update: 7/09 3:13 pm
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A community is still reeling from the murder of a well-known jewelry shop owner in Fairfield. But as neighbors try to cope, one area business owner and Fairfield's Chief of Police have some strong advice: arm yourselves.  Fairfield's Police Chief Patrick Mardis says, "I have a daughter, I have a wife and they shop in this area, and I've had an officer lose her life in this area.  We've got to say enough is enough!"  Thursday's murder of Lee Buong hits too close to home for Chief Mardis.  It was just 3 years ago Officer Mary Smith was gunned down in the line of duty.  Now he says something has to give, and neighbors agree that business owners and workers need to take strong precautions.  Benjamin January is a resident of Fairfield and says, "The first time they go in business and the area is not good, they need to get some security guards. That will make it safer for them and the customers."  Glenn Hardy, of Glenn Hardy Hair Institute in Midfield, says he's worked in the area for 20 years, and it's not that bad.  However he advises small business owners not to get too relaxed.  He says, "I would advise anybody to keep themselves armed, and have your weapons in areas you can get to them."  Hardy says these days anything can happen in a moments notice and it's best to go with your gut feeling.  "You want to make sure you're well aware of your surroundings.  Midfield and Fairfield are good areas but some things can't be avoided."