A tribute to Winter Park High School student Roger Trindade, who died October 18, will take place at the Central Park main stage tomorrow, October 26, at 6:00 p.m.

The tribute is part of Winter Park High School’s Homecoming celebration, which will include a parade down Park Avenue from Webster to Lyman from 5:00 to 6:00 pm. Side streets to Park Avenue will be closed during that hour for the passing of the parade.

Police Investigation Ongoing

The Winter Park Police Department investigation into Roger Trindade’s death continues. Police Chief Michael Deal told the Voice, “The Winter Park Police Department is committed to doing a thorough, unbiased investigation regarding the tragic death of Roger Trindade.

“Since day one, we have treated Roger’s death as a criminal investigation. As such, we have dedicated the significant amount of resources necessary to present a prosecutable case. As in all cases of criminal investigation, especially those involving juveniles, our investigation must proceed with care and discretion – and this may take some time.

“We are maintaining contact with Roger’s family and will continue to make the privacy and interests of the family a priority. We are aware and understand the safety concerns of our citizens to include parents and students, and we are committed to ensuring Park Avenue and all of our schools remain safe places.”

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At 11:23 this morning, the City of Winter Park Police Department (WPPD) provided the following update regarding their investigation into the death of 15-year-old Winter Park High School student Roger Trindade.

What Happened

On October 15, 2016, at 9:48 pm, Winter Park Police Officers were dispatched to Central Park at the corner of Park Avenue and Morse Blvd. Police and Fire/Rescue personnel arrived on scene within two minutes. They arrived to find Roger Trindade unconscious. The suspects had already fled the scene. Roger Trindade bore no physical signs of injury and no physical evidence that would suggest he had been beaten.

Investigation Still Active

“This remains an active investigation,” stated Lieutenant Pam Marcum. “The Winter Park Police Department will continue to work directly with the Trindade family through the developments of this investigation.”

WPPD investigators have identified all of the individuals involved and are continuing their criminal investigation into what happened. Because those associated with this incident are juveniles, their identities cannot be released.

Park Ave. Patrols Upped

WPPD has increased patrols in and around Central Park.

Cause of Death Still Unknown

Exactly what caused the death of Roger Trindade is still not known. “Until we know what caused his death,” said Marcum, “we cannot make an accurate assessment of what criminal charges are appropriate.” The Orange-Osceola Medical Examiner is continuing to investigate the cause of death, and their investigation will take several weeks.

State, County Agencies Involved

Other agencies, including the Joint Homicide Investigation Team, the Medical Examiner and the State Attorney’s Office are assisting WPPD in their investigation. In criminal cases where juveniles are arrested, there is a very short window between the arrest and the prosecution. If a law enforcement agency makes a premature arrest, the prosecutor will not have the benefit of the Medical Examiner’s results or any potential forensic examinations at trial.

If You Have Information . . .

Lieutenant Marcum emphasized that the WPPD appreciates everyone who has provided a tip or information about this case. Even though police have identified all parties involved, she said, if you have any information regarding this case, you should contact WPPD at 407-644-1313 or Crime Line at 407-423-TIPS.

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