I totally get where you're coming from, Jules. I've just been considering some various scenarios and would love everyone's input. I think brainstorming is the most we can all do at this point. With what little LE has given us, what else do we have ? So just some thoughts, many of which I know have already have been put forth, nonetheless:
What if they were being stalked from the store in Leadore? I don't think that's completely impossible.
What if the "friend" IR, isn't really a trustworthy guy and handed him off to someone. I don't think that's completely impossible either.
What if there was someone who had a grudge or there was some kind of alleged "debt" to be paid. IDK
Hell, IDK anything, LOL.
I also haven't completely discounted the Mountain Lion theory. And there are other possible theories that I won't mention.
ETA: One more point, how do we know the boots were so big they would fall off?