ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. — A 20-year-old man is in custody following an alleged sexual assault on the Seminole Wekiva Trail Monday afternoon, according to the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies say Patrick Gamache grabbed and sexually assaulted a woman near the intersection of State Road 434 and Douglas Avenue around 4 p.m. The victim was dragged toward the nearby woods before a bystander heard her cries and called 911.
Gamache was arrested the next day and charged with sexual assault and battery. He is currently held in the Seminole County Jail. Authorities have not yet disclosed if the suspect and victim knew each other or if further charges may be filed.
Sheriff Dennis Lemma commended the victim for her bravery, saying, “Her strength in recounting the details gave our detectives the critical information they needed to swiftly identify, locate, and apprehend the suspect.” He praised his deputies for their professionalism and thanked the community for its support in keeping the area safe.
This incident has sparked growing concerns among local runners and trail users about safety. Veteran runner Michelle Nunez noted that the attack has made women reconsider solo workouts on trails. “Maybe being on a trail solo isn’t a thing to do if you’re a female anymore,” she said.
Heather Shulz, who runs frequently, recommended running in groups for added safety. She also mentioned that participation in local run clubs increased 59% last year as more people seek safer options.
The attack marks the third violent crime reported on Central Florida trails within three months. Recent incidents include a sexual assault on the Little Econ Greenway Trail in July and an arrest at Turkey Creek Sanctuary in June related to inappropriate behavior.
The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office continues to urge caution and vigilance among trail users as the investigation remains ongoing.
