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Two Found Dead in Westlake Tent as Calls for Encampment Action Intensify

Authorities confirm non-homicidal deaths of Lucrecia Macias Barajas and an unidentified man, as state and local leaders demand urgent measures to address homeless encampments.

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Overview

  • A man and a woman, identified as Lucrecia Macias Barajas, 46, and an unidentified male in his 30s, were found dead inside a locked tent at a Westlake homeless encampment on Monday.
  • The LAPD has ruled out homicide, and the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner is working to determine the cause of death.
  • Animal Services removed two dogs from the scene, which police confirmed had been eating the bodies; the animals are now in custody at a local shelter.
  • Governor Gavin Newsom and Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez have called for urgent action to address safety and resource issues at encampments, citing the ongoing risks to public health and safety.
  • Residents near the encampment report longstanding issues, including drug activity and safety concerns, and claim repeated calls for action have gone unanswered.