Community divided over the presence of makeshift shelter and unconventional quest for treasure
In a divisive turn of events, a homeless man has erected a cabin in a Seattle public park, accompanied by an excavator, stirring debate among locals.
Steven Irwin, aged 41, has taken up residence in Dr Jose Rizal Park, asserting that he has tacit permission to do so. This marks his second endeavour to construct a cabin at the site, following the dismantling of his previous shelter by Seattle’s parks and recreation department, which incurred expenses amounting to $15,000 for removal and repairs in October 2023.
Undeterred, Irwin has returned to the park, fortifying his new abode with various amenities including fireplaces, propane heaters, generators, a washing machine, and even a treadmill. However, his unconventional additions have sparked concerns among residents and advocacy groups.
Andrea Suarez of the homeless advocacy group We Heart Seattle voiced apprehensions regarding Irwin’s activities, citing environmental hazards and risks posed by the presence of multiple fuel sources and exposed wiring in the vicinity. Suarez also highlighted Irwin’s purported ambition to unearth precious minerals, characterizing his activities as delusional and potentially perilous.
Despite offers of assistance, including six months of housing provided by Suarez, Irwin remains steadfast in his resolve to reside in the park.
Responses to the situation have been mixed, with some condemning Irwin’s actions as vandalism of public property, while others express sympathy, attributing his plight to systemic issues of housing affordability and economic disparity.
