Tragic Discovery Triggers Homicide Investigation After Missing Hiker Found Dead in San Antonio

Sad Discovery on East Side of San Antonio

San Antonio has been shaken by a tragic event this week that has left many residents and local officials in shock. On Monday morning, deputies from the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office launched a homicide investigation after finding a woman’s body along a greenway trail not far from Dafoste Park on the East Side. The incident has raised concerns about safety in the area, particularly for those who enjoy the city’s beautiful trails.

A Missing Hiker

Authorities suspect foul play, believing the victim is likely Stacey Dramiga, a beloved 63-year-old woman who was reported missing just a day prior. Dramiga was an avid hiker and was last seen Sunday morning on the popular trails, around 10 a.m. Her family began to worry when she didn’t return from her usual walk. They discovered her car parked at Covington Park, which is about two miles from where her body was found, yet there was no sign of her.

Concerned for her safety, her family promptly contacted local authorities to begin a search. “At this point, it’s too early to definitively say that this is Ms. Dramiga,” noted Sheriff Javier Salazar. However, he mentioned that the physical description of the body closely matched that of the missing woman.

A Coordinated Search Effort

The search efforts quickly escalated, with both the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office and San Antonio Park Police teaming up. Thanks to some clever thinking, Dramiga’s family used an app linked to her iPad that pinpointed her phone’s location. Sheriff Salazar acknowledged how instrumental that was in narrowing down the search area. “Utilizing the app, it pretty much gave us a very tight circle where we were able to go,” he explained.

Investigating the Scene

During the search, a body that closely matched Dramiga’s description was discovered not far from her phone, and evidence at the scene suggested foul play. Based on the sheriff’s statements, it’s evident that this wasn’t a natural occurrence. “We don’t believe that she went off that trail voluntarily,” Sheriff Salazar stated, indicating that she may have been forced or taken off the trail.

Deputies on horseback will be patrolling the trails in the coming days, searching for any additional evidence. “What we’re doing out here right now is we’re looking for any evidence,” Salazar shared with the community. “Being that her car was a couple of miles away, we don’t know if she walked directly from there to the point where we found this body, or if she may have walked further down and then was on her way back to the car,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of searching the extensive area.

Safety Reminders for Trail Walkers

The sheriff took a moment to remind the community that while the trails are generally safe for outdoor activities, it’s crucial for walkers, runners, and bikers to remain aware of their surroundings. “If you’re going to be out walking or running or biking on a trail, take a friend,” he advised. “Make sure you’re notifying someone of where you’re going to be.”

At the time of her disappearance, Dramiga was wearing a blue long-sleeve shirt, multi-colored yoga pants, and had a hat and scarf for sun protection. The community is urged to be vigilant and report any information. Anyone who may have been in Dafoste Park or Covington Park on Sunday and might have seen her is encouraged to contact the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office at (210) 335-6000.

A Message from Local Officials

City Councilman Jalen McKee Rodriguez, who represents the district that includes Dafoste Park, expressed his condolences. “We are waiting on more information from city and county law enforcement, but I am shocked and mortified by this news, and my heart is with the family of the woman who was found and all who knew her,” he said. “This is devastating news.”

This heartbreaking situation serves as a reminder for the community to be vigilant while enjoying outdoor activities and to look out for one another. As more details emerge, we extend our thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Stacey Dramiga during this profoundly difficult time.