Beloved Orlando Church Elder Brutally Attacked at Home; Suspect with Violent Past Arrested After Leaving Key Evidence

ORLANDO, Fla. — A tragic event has unfolded in Orlando, where Lucy Pat Curl, an 85-year-old woman, is battling for her life in a coma after a brutal home invasion. The victim, known for her musical contributions at the First Baptist Church, suffered the attack on Caribbean Court last Friday evening. Her husband, Pastor Bill Curl, discovered her shortly after he returned from providing counseling.

According to authorities, Ronald Dwayne Davis, 55, impersonated a community service officer to gain entry into the Curl’s residence. Once inside, he assaulted and robbed Lucy Pat Curl. Following the attack, she attempted to call for help and even honked her car horn to alert neighbors. The suspect was apprehended the next day hiding in a shed on property where he resided, his identification having been inadvertently left at the scene.

Pastor David Uth of First Baptist Orlando shared details of the crime with his congregation on Sunday, expressing confusion and sorrow over the motivations behind such violent acts. “Why do people commit violent acts against innocent people? I don’t know,” he remarked. The incident has shaken the church community, a prominent fixture in Central Florida, where the Curls are well-loved members.

Orlando Police Chief Eric Smith, as quoted by Uth, highlighted Davis’s history of similar offenses, which raised questions about the choice of his elderly victim this time around. Investigations reveal that Davis has a lengthy criminal record, with arrests dating back nearly 40 years, including charges related to violent break-ins and assaults.

Over the years, Davis has been arrested nine times since 1985, with a notable conviction in 2013 for targeting two different women. He served time for offenses including false imprisonment, assault with a deadly weapon, and burglary. Recently released from the Department of Correction last June, Davis now faces charges of home invasion robbery, aggravated battery on a person 65 or older, and aggravated battery with a weapon.

Due to his refusal to attend his first court appearance, Davis is being held without bond, pending a hearing in Orange County circuit court set for Friday morning. Meanwhile, the community continues to rally around Lucy Pat Curl, offering prayers and support as she remains in critical condition in the hospital, dependent on a ventilator.

This incident not only highlights the vulnerability of the elderly in similar scenarios but also provokes questions regarding the efficacy of the criminal justice system in monitoring repeat offenders. As the case progresses, local authorities and the general public are left pondering preventative measures that could deter such crimes in the future, ensuring the safety of all citizens, particularly those most susceptible to such brutal acts.