San Antonio Community Rallies for Safety Awareness Walk After Tragic Incident
In the heart of San Antonio, a wave of compassion and unity is unfolding as local hiking groups come together to honor the memory of Stacey Dramiga, a beloved community member who tragically lost her life. On September 23, the 63-year-old’s body was discovered along the Salado Creek Greenway, igniting a call for increased safety measures on our trails.
What Happened?
Stacey, known for her love of the great outdoors and frequent solo hikes, was comfortable exploring the trails alone. However, her death has raised serious concerns about safety for those who enjoy the trails throughout San Antonio. In a swift response, the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office arrested Marco Flores, 37, on charges related to this incident, including evading arrest and detention. Though he was located in close proximity to the site of Stacey’s discovery, further details remain undisclosed as the investigation continues.
A Community Unites
In light of this terrible event, several local hiking groups have stepped up to take action. They are hosting a Safety Awareness Walk on October 20 at 10 a.m., gathering at Comanche Park located at 2600 Rigsby Avenue. Participating groups include the San Antonio Hikers, Campers and Backpackers, the Hikerbabes Community, Hiking Heroes, and the San Antonio Plus Sized Women’s Hiking Group. This event aims to promote safety and encourage vigilance on the trails, ensuring that all outdoor enthusiasts feel secure in the embrace of nature.
Voices of the Community
With a strong belief that this is a community issue rather than just a concern for hikers, organizer Sara Alexis highlighted the importance of solidarity. “We are uniting to send a message to the community that this won’t be tolerated,” she expressed. Similarly, Ann Garcia Downes echoed this sentiment, stating, “We should all be able to get outside and enjoy nature without this type of fear!”
Practical Safety Tips
The organizing groups are eager to share practical safety tips that everyone can incorporate into their hiking habits. Here are a few essentials:
- Let someone know your hiking plans and expected return time.
- Carry personal safety items such as a personal alarm, mace or pepper spray, and a whistle.
- Keep your phone handy for navigation and in case of an emergency; always have 911 on speed dial.
- Know your route ahead of time to avoid unforeseen situations.
Getting Involved
This awareness walk isn’t just about remembering Stacey; it’s about fostering a conversation on hiking safety and community cohesion. At the event, public safety organizations are expected to discuss solo hiking and offer additional safety tips. Attendees can look forward to giveaways of hiker-friendly items, such as whistles and other deterrents.
As the date approaches, more details will be shared on the official Facebook event page, so keep an eye out!
In Conclusion
San Antonio’s incredible community spirit is shining through during these challenging times. By coming together to prioritize safety and support one another, we can create a reassuring environment for all who love to experience the beauty of our trails. Join your neighbors in making a difference—let’s take a stand for safety and adventure!
