I think most women who do it, are well aware that any solo outings involves some level of risk from encountering a creepy dude. That's what we learned from hearing Little Red Riding Hood read to us as little girls.
I can't say for sure whether Hope Riley knew it, but it seems perhaps her friend, who so quickly contacted police, knew it.
So then it comes down to personal choice. Although these cases are, rightfully, big news, what never gets in the news is the millions of women whose lives are immeaurably enhanced and empowered by being able to exercise in nature, on their own schedule, in their own private space.
Hope was an expert runner, she likely ran every day for years. Are we telling women like her they can only run round and round the indoor track at the gym? Or only run matching the pace of slower runners, so she can be in a crowd?
It really is personal choice, IMO, to balance the actual risk vs actual reward. And, for sure, one can try to mitigate the perceived risk. But nothing is 100% safe.
JMO