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Transient-set fires have OB residents on edge

Posted at 7:44 AM, Mar 02, 2016
and last updated 2016-03-02 10:58:57-05
OCEAN BEACH, Calif. -- Ocean Beach residents are concerned about a recent slew of fires that have been allegedly set by transients in the area. 
 
Recently, Brian Shumeyer's afternoon nap with his daughter was cut short when he woke up to a crackling sound. 
 
"We were sleeping right here in this recliner, and we had the window open," Shumeyer said. "After I ran and got the camera, we came out here and the fire was straight out there about 100 yards, just a huge cloud of smoke going way up past those eucalyptus trees."
 
He recorded the huge fire with his camera from the balcony of his apartment. He told 10News it is not the first fire that he's seen. 
 
"The last time we had a fire here, it was because homeless people were starting a fire to get warm," Shumeyer said. "I've seen them have a fire down there." 
 
He's tired of having the danger in his community. 
 
"We cannot have fires a hundred yards away from houses," Shumeyer said. 
 
In a statement to 10News San Diego City Councilwoman Lori Zapf brought up the hot button issue of whether surveillance cameras should be installed in public areas: 
 
"I remain steadfast in my support of law enforcement’s efforts to address the transient population in the beach area.  Additionally, I am a proponent of the installation of surveillance cameras near the beach area to assist law enforcement in solving and prosecuting criminals that impact the quality of life of San Diegans and visitors."
 
Police say their homeless outreach teams are being proactive and reactive to help with any homeless problems.