A tense atmosphere settled amongst the San Antonio walking community as it was abruptly put to a halt by another investigation into a possible homicide on the North side. On Saturday Oct. 5, an unidentified male body between the ages of 20 and 30 was found dead on a golf cart near Walker Ranch Park. The cart went unnoticed by most as it was hidden behind shrubbery and covered with a tarp. The body was discovered by a San Antonio park police officer patrolling the area. The Bexar County medical examiner has yet to provide the victim’s name or cause of death. Police do suspect foul play may be involved. An investigation is ongoing.
This scare comes after Stacey Dramiga, a healthcare worker at Brooke Army Medical Center, was murdered on a local hiking trail weeks prior. There have been multiple efforts to bring to light the importance of safety following this incident. A safety awareness walk has been organized by hiking groups in honor of Dramiga, scheduled at 10 a.m. on Oct. 20 at Comanche Park.
“I think it’s important to highlight that we see this as a community issue, not just hikers and not just women,” organizer Sara Alexis said. “We are uniting to send a message to the community that this won’t be tolerated.”
UTSA student, Arianna Lira, who is an avid walker, gave her input on both situations: “It’s scary not only as a woman, but also as a mom. I feel San Antonio as a large city is slowly becoming a less enjoyable place to explore,” Lira said. “Walking on trails is my favorite pastime and has become a favorite activity for my family and I.”
“Police recommend starting a trip at least 30 minutes after sunrise and/or ending it at least 30 minutes before sunset so you don’t walk in the dark,” Public Information Officer Ximena Alvarez said.
SAPD still encourages others who are going to be walking to not do it alone. An individual should always take precautions by knowing the trail beforehand as well as its designated mile markers. This is important in case first responders need to reach somebody.
If an individual is in need of help or in an unsafe situation, reach the non-emergency number at 210-207-7273 or 9-1-1.
