After the first double-murder, some parents warned their children about being out late. The second double-murder shocked the city and curfews were set for businesses. The height of the town's hysteria snowballed after the murder of Virgil Starks. The "Texarkana Gazette" stated on Sunday, May 5 that the killer might strike again at any moment, at any place, and at anyone. Before, it was normal to leave one's house unlocked, but soon residents started locking doors, pulling down shades, blocking windows, and arming themselves with guns. Some people nailed sheets over their windows or nailed the windows down. Some used screened-door braces as window guards. The day after Starks' death, several residents bought firearms and locks. Stores sold out of locks, guns, ammunition, window shades, and Venetian blinds. Additional items of which sales increased included window sash locks, screen door hooks, night latches, and other protective devices.