[KBoy]

I am assuming some things here, like if you ruled the runner safe, I would assume that the reached first base. They are allowed to overrun first base without being in jeapardy unless they make an attempt toward second; from your post,it does not appear that there was an attempt to advance toward second. So why would the runner be in jeopardy of being tagged out?

I might live with this being interpreted that the runner abandoned their base, but I still can't see how you would consider the runner in jeopardy.

I agree with all the mechanics discussed. "No ball, no call" for a ball that eludes the first baseman and it is apparent to everyone that the ball is loose. On one that the first baseman drops and it relatively close to first and they can retrieve quickly, I have a point, "ball's on the ground, safe" verbal call.