Concerns Over Homeless Encampment Affecting Kids’ Journey to School in South Los Angeles

Safety Concerns Resurface Outside South Los Angeles Elementary School

LOS ANGELES – Ongoing safety issues outside 61st Street Elementary School in South Los Angeles have parents and residents voicing their concerns over hazardous conditions linked to a nearby homeless encampment. Despite previous complaints and a recent city cleanup, locals report that these dangers persist.

Residents in the area, including concerned parent Karen Gutierrez, noted that a city crew cleared the encampment near the 110 Freeway underpass just one block from the school on Wednesday, but individuals returned shortly afterward. "They come back within an hour. Some just said they’re just waiting to clean up and they’ll come back. That’s how bad it is," Gutierrez stated.

The encampment reportedly contributes to an environment rife with tents, trash, and drug activity, raising significant alarm for families. Gutierrez highlighted disturbing encounters, saying, "A lot of pipes that are broken, massive condoms used," adding to the hazards children face during their commutes.

Conditions have further deteriorated, according to resident Omar Ramos, who described inappropriate behavior in the area, emphasizing that "people having sex in their cars, and once they’re done, they throw the used condoms on the sidewalk and street."

Gutierrez recounts a particularly alarming incident involving a parent who was reportedly accosted by a homeless individual. "I’ve had a parent that actually comes to school — she has two kids — and she was snatched by one of the homeless and placed in the tent," she shared, noting the group nearby was able to intervene before the situation escalated.

Despite raising complaints with city officials for years, residents claim that no lasting action has been taken. "I’ve been in contact with Council District 9 and the school since 2021 to come up with permanent solutions. What’s their solution so far? Zero," Ramos said. Gutierrez also expressed frustration with the lack of effective responses to her reports, stating, "I’ve called 311. I’ve used the app. I’ve reported it when there’s fires."

After the recent cleanup, FOX 11 observed evidence of the community’s concerns firsthand, including litter and an active fire near the encampment. "I’m very, very disappointed with the city," Gutierrez remarked.

Parents are now advocating for more than temporary solutions, demanding a long-term strategy to ensure the safety of children traveling to school. "Respectfully, come off your desk and come and do your job, because these kids deserve better," Gutierrez urged.

FOX 11 has reached out to Los Angeles City Councilmember Curren Price, who represents District 9, as well as the Los Angeles Unified School District, but has not received a response from either entity.