Oklahoma City, OK —A fire broke out early Monday morning at a makeshift shelter near Southwest 23rd Street and S. Walker Avenue, as residents braved freezing temperatures. The fire occurred in an area where several homeless individuals had established shelters, reportedly around five or six in total. Emergency responders arrived to find people attempting to salvage their belongings while fighting the blaze, though no injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire remains unclear, but authorities suspect it may have been related to attempts by those experiencing homelessness to stay warm during the extreme cold. The incident took place near a construction site and a nearby neighborhood, with powerlines in the area also being affected. OG&E crews were dispatched to the scene to address power disruptions caused by the blaze.
Firefighters noted that this incident is part of a broader pattern they’ve seen in recent weeks, where fires have started in isolated, makeshift shelters as individuals seek warmth in frigid conditions. These types of fires are often harder to contain due to the seclusion of the shelters, making them difficult to reach quickly.
Fire officials have responded to several similar incidents throughout the winter months. While no injuries have been reported, the frequency of these fires highlights the dangers faced by those without permanent housing during severe weather. Authorities are urging those affected by homelessness to seek out more secure shelter options, as the risk of such fires continues to rise with the ongoing cold snap.
The Oklahoma City Fire Department, alongside OG&E, continues to monitor the situation, ensuring that fire hazards are mitigated and power is restored to affected areas. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the hardships that many in the community are facing this winter, and the need for continued support for those experiencing homelessness.
