Bio

Patrick J. McIntyre was born on August 1, 1972, in the United States. He was raised in Florida and was the son of Molly McIntyre, a police officer with the Vero Beach Police Department. His early life included significant personal challenges, including the loss of his father in a drunk-driving accident during his childhood.

McIntyre lived in Vero Beach, Florida, and had connections within the local community. Prior to the murder, he had already come into contact with the criminal justice system. He had a history of violent behavior, including a later conviction for an attempted sexual assault involving a family member.

In 1997, McIntyre was acquainted with Nicole Damatt, as they had lived in the same apartment complex. This familiarity placed him within proximity of the victim shortly before the events that led to her death.

Murder Story

On October 7, 1997, Patrick J. McIntyre entered the apartment of 26-year-old Nicole Damatt in Indian River County, Florida. The entry was later determined to be part of a burglary.

During the incident, Damatt encountered McIntyre inside her apartment. He then attacked her and strangled her, causing her death. After the killing, he removed property from the residence, including a computer.

In an attempt to conceal the crime, McIntyre set fire to the apartment. The fire caused extensive damage and resulted in the death of the victim’s dog due to smoke inhalation. Initial investigation of the scene revealed signs of forced entry, including an open window and the presence of a ladder outside.

For several weeks, the case remained unresolved, although investigators had identified McIntyre as a suspect due to his connection to the victim and proximity to the scene.

On December 10, 1997, McIntyre was arrested in connection with a separate incident involving burglary and attempted sexual assault against a family member. Following this arrest, he was questioned regarding the Damatt case.

After speaking with his mother, who encouraged him to tell the truth, McIntyre agreed to speak with investigators. He was formally advised of his rights and subsequently gave a recorded confession. In his statement, he admitted to entering Damatt’s apartment, attacking and strangling her, committing theft, and setting the fire to cover up the crime.

The case proceeded to trial in 1999. On March 5, 1999, a jury found McIntyre guilty of first-degree murder, armed burglary with assault, arson, grand theft, and felony cruelty to animals.

During the sentencing phase, the jury recommended life imprisonment rather than the death penalty. On April 26, 1999, the court sentenced McIntyre to multiple life terms without the possibility of parole. He remains incarcerated within the Florida prison system, serving his sentence.