‘We’ve heard nothing’: A beloved Orlando man was found dead in his home; his friends are demanding answers

By Luana Munoz

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    ORLANDO, Florida (WESH) — Patrick Herman, a 69-year-old Orlando resident, was found dead in his home on Sept. 7, leaving friends mourning his loss and searching for answers.

Michael Hollmen described Herman as “a very peaceful person” who was “incredibly intelligent” and deeply committed to his values, which included his circle of friends, family, and community.

Friends grew concerned when Herman, a member of the Orlando Front Runners and Walkers group, failed to show up for a run.

“The Saturday before Labor Day weekend, he didn’t receive a text from Patrick, and we all meet in a group before we run and walk,” Hollmen said.

According to the medical examiner, Herman died “from blunt force injury of the neck.”

Orlando police issued a statement regarding the case, saying, “We understand there is significant community interest in this case, and we want the community to know our detectives are working around the clock to put the pieces together and bring this investigation to a resolution.

“At this time, we are unable to provide additional details in order to protect the integrity of the investigation. While we may not be releasing further information right now, our detectives remain actively engaged and committed to resolving this case.”

Nearly a month later, friends say they are frustrated by the lack of updates.

“But as the weeks have gone by and we’ve heard nothing. That has been becoming more of a frustration,” Hollmen said.

Herman was more than just a runner, friends said. He was an architect, an artist, a member of the Orlando Gay Chorus, and an avid climber and traveler.

“Patrick was one of those persons, if you knew him, you were going to hug him. You weren’t going to kill him,” Hollmen said.

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