Community Reminds San Antonio to Stay Safe on Trails
San Antonio is known for its stunning trails and lush parks, a perfect spot for some relaxation and fitness. However, recent events have cast a shadow on the beauty of these natural spaces. Community members and city officials want to remind everyone about the importance of safety and vigilance while hitting the trails.
Tragic Incident Hits Close to Home
On a somber Monday, the body of 63-year-old Stacey Dramiga was found along the Salado Creek Greenway near Dafoste Park. Authorities had issued a CLEAR Alert earlier in the day, starting a search that took a tragic turn. It seems that Dramiga had planned a simple walk on Sunday at Covington Park, a lovely area known for its scenic views. Sadly, when her husband didn’t hear from her that evening, he contacted the authorities, marking the beginning of a worried search.
Using an iPad to ping her phone, law enforcement officials zeroed in on a wooded area where they found her. However, the news turned from hope to heartbreak when the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office revealed that Georgia had been killed, having sustained severe head injuries. A man, identified only as Marco Flores, was arrested after he tried to flee when questioned by authorities. Although he was not charged with any crime regarding the incident, he was charged with evading arrest. His knowledge of undisclosed details about Dramiga’s condition raised eyebrows, deepening the tragedy of the situation.
A Community in Mourning
The news hit hard for local residents like Frank Trevino, a frequent visitor to the Greenway Trail System. “It’s very sad, very unfortunate,” he shared, expressing his sorrow for a fellow trail user. Trevino is involved in the Parks and Recreation Department’s trail watch program, which consists of about 60 community volunteers who help monitor the trails. As someone who bikes and jogs through these paths regularly, he feels a responsibility to keep an eye out for others.
“People enjoy the trails; they are safe. But there are some sections—small, desolate areas that could feel isolated,” he added. It seems that many trail users share his sentiment, which fueled discussions about how to improve safety on these beloved paths. Trevino mentioned that his volunteering allows him to engage with fellow travelers and gather feedback on their experiences.
Trail Safety Measures to Consider
Connie Swann, a marketing manager with the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, also chimed in on the matter. She explained that some of the larger trailheads feature emergency call boxes for quick access to help with just a press of a button. To aid in your next adventure, she suggests that people should always come prepared. “Bring a friend out on the trail. Always carry a charged cell phone, and let someone know where you’re headed. If you can, drop a pin to keep them updated on your location,” she advised.
Stay Aware and Safe
The San Antonio Police Department has officers patrolling the City Park trails, which adds a layer of safety while enjoying outdoor activities. However, SAPD also recommends developing a keen sense of awareness while you’re out enjoying nature. It’s easy to get lost in the moment, but wearing headphones or listening to loud music could hinder your situational awareness. Sometimes, it’s the little things that can make the biggest difference!
In light of this tragic event, let’s commit to being smart and safe on our beautiful trails. For those interested in becoming more involved, the community offers the trail watch volunteer program, an opportunity that not only helps others but fosters a sense of community as well. Together, we can make San Antonio trails a safer place for everyone.
