I have to agree with the other comments that this isn't too bad an experience, it's unfortunate and maybe unprofessional. From your article I get the impression

I have to agree with the other comments that this isn't too bad an experience, it's unfortunate and maybe unprofessional. From your article I get the impression there could be any number of legitimate reasons that the CEO isn't prepared to share. It's less likely the CEO just set out to lie to you. You dodged a bullet I guess, might be worth keeping an eye on the company, maybe they're shutting down unexpectedly. Good luck with the search though.