Resident recounts discovery of homeless veteran in Ridgecrest park, council expresses concern

Ridgecrest — During public comment on Dec. 3, Barbara Bain described a recent incident in which a homeless veteran was found at Leroy Jackson Park in a pool of blood and waste, reportedly having fallen from a wheelchair and in need of emergency medical evacuation.

Bain said community members had been offering the individual food and shelter options but that he declined; she asked why welfare checks or follow-up did not prevent the emergency and urged the city to create better systems for helping vulnerable residents. Bain said the incident occurred in the early morning and that county workers found and arranged an airlift to a hospital; she did not know the veteran’s final condition.

Councilmembers responded with dismay and asked staff to follow up. One member asked whether an assault had occurred and requested further information. Council discussion noted the matter of responsibility and options for outreach to people living in parks. No formal directive to adopt a specific new program was made during the meeting; councilmembers encouraged staff and community organizations to continue addressing homelessness and service gaps.

The council thanked Bain for raising the issue and asked staff to provide any available follow-up when possible.