SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – A 20-year-old man has been taken into custody after a woman was attacked Monday on the Seminole Wekiva Trail, deputies said.
The attack happened around 4 p.m. near the intersection of State Road 434 and Douglas Avenue.
The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office said the woman was walking when she was approached by an unknown man who had an electric scooter.
According to a Monday news release, the man dragged the victim toward the woodline of the trail, but a nearby citizen heard her cries for help, located her and called 911.
“During increased patrol and surveillance, SCSO detectives identified a individual matching the description and have taken that suspect into custody,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement on Tuesday.
Later in the day, detectives identified the person arrested as Patrick Gamache.
Officials said Gamache faces charges of sexual assault/battery and was taken the Seminole County jail.
Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma released the statement below after Gamache’s arrest:
“I want to recognize the victim’s tremendous courage throughout this traumatic event. Her strength in recounting the details gave our detectives the critical information they needed to swiftly identify, locate, and apprehend the suspect. These cases are often complex, and I commend our detectives for their tireless professionalism and commitment to securing justice. I also extend my gratitude to our media partners for their prompt coverage and to the law-abiding citizens whose vigilance helps keep our community safe. It is through the courage of victims, the dedication of law enforcement, and the support of our community that we remain strong and resilient in the face of those who seek to do harm.”
Sheriff Dennis Lemma
News 6 spoke with several people who use the trail.
“We run (the trail.) Every Tuesday and Thursday in a pack of about six to eight of us,” Robin Ware said. We try to stay with somebody at all times.”
Ware said she was surprised and saddened upon hearing about the attack.
“We see a lot of single ladies out here,” Ware said. “I think for women who are working out alone, they ought to change their habits a little bit.” so they’re not a target and somebody might be watching for a long period of time and decide to pounce or something."
Melissa Polott said she also runs regularly on the Seminole Wekiva Trail.
“You don’t know who you’re going to meet on the trail, and there are people individually riding their bikes and they could be creeps,” she said.
[Watch News 6’s previous reporting in the media player below]
George Peck, who rides his bicycle on the trail, said you have to be aware, especially since you’re in nature.
“I’ve noticed this, sometimes they have (ear buds) in their ear, the music,” Peck said.
Gamache was given no bond at his first appearance in court on Wednesday.
The sheriff’s office said it offers a free Women’s Safety and Awareness Class. For more information, please email crimeprevention@seminolesheriff.org.