I don't know about the rest of it but I think Lono, (would that be a veiled reference to Dr. Thompson by any chance?) has it right. Dealing with a serial killer, like many other things that occur in one's life, has nothing whatsoever to do with the events of Sept. 11.
I should have been more clear, that's what I get for posting before I'm completely awake.
I don't think murderers / serial killers come close to equaling 9.11.
What I was referring to was the publics' response to fear in general. Whether it be a serial killer, terrorist attack, etc. Which does have some similarities. We as an animal will pretty much react the same regardless of what the perceived threat is (close ranks/circle wagons/man the parapets)
In responding here, I didn't look back to see where 9.11 was originally mentioned (doesn't really matter), but I remember reading it and it was what was in the back of my mind when I was writing my response.
I agree that the 9.11 card gets played too often. It's almost become like referring to Hitler in a debate(Godwin's Law).