But he had realized the option had already been barricaded away from him. [He mused, putting puzzle pieces together some in his mind.

How could one be seen going South-East and West...unless he had doubled back in this direction. And then witnesses always had to be considered individually as well.]

Are the reports in the same instance, or is there a time-lapse between them? Knowing what he did, I assume your reports are from a wide canvass of citizens?

[Yep, excuse him while he slips somewhat in career mode here.]