Wow that's a scary close call. That many pit bulls could have killed him quickly. The right bite and he could have bled out fast.
I've dealt with the same problems while out training, having to climb a few trees and jump a few fences etc. to escape. Pit bulls and little ankle biting dogs have been the worst in my personal experiences. Nearly every time if the dog owner is there they will say that the dog doesn't bite but it does bite.
There are many dangers when out running. While out on foot I've run into local wildlife. A nasty hairless coyote ran by my leg a few years back. I see bobcats. I have stepped on snakes before. I've seen panthers 2 times in Collin County from about 2008 - 2010. I was told that the county has 5 dominant male panthers so I wonder how many panthers are really here. I've seen wild hogs. I stopped running those trails. Men can be dangerous while running making threats and offers. It's important to not wear headphones and really pay attention. Sometimes I have training partners with me on bike or foot while training just for safety. I'm glad I have some private facilities where I do a lot of my training now.
An experience like Pope had interferes with his life. He and others can't feel safe even going outdoors to exercise. These dogs and owners problems wind me up.