Rochester Grapples with Homelessness Crisis Amid Fires and Encampment Concerns

Photo byRochester NH Police

ROCHESTER, NH – The City of Rochester, like many communities across the nation, is facing an escalating homelessness crisis. The situation has been highlighted by two recent incidents involving fires at homeless encampments, sparking concerns over public health and safety, particularly in areas close to schools.

Photo byRochester NH Police

On Monday, September 16, at approximately 6:45 p.m., the Rochester Police and Fire Departments responded to Hanson Pines Park, behind Dominicus Court and near the high school, following a report of an explosion and fire. Emergency personnel discovered a large fire in what appeared to be a homeless encampment in a wooded area. Fortunately, no occupants were found at the site, and no injuries were reported. The Rochester Fire Department successfully extinguished the fire.

Photo byRochester NH Police

This incident follows another recent report of an encampment being cleared behind the William Allen School on Granite Street. Rochester Police, working with other city officials, are removing the abandoned encampment, which posed significant safety concerns due to unsanitary waste and the presence of sharp objects. Residents and children have been advised to stay away from the area during the cleanup.

In both instances, police reminded the public that camping on city property is strictly prohibited. It is unlawful for any person to camp or park, with occupancy, any vehicle or recreational vehicle either overnight or for any two-hour period between dusk and dawn on city-owned land in Rochester.

These incidents have fueled frustration and debate within the community, particularly on social media. Many residents have expressed anger and concern over the conditions of homeless encampments, while some who work with homeless populations have tried to explain the complexities of the situation. Critics have also pointed to the city's decision to reduce the number of occupants allowed in the Willand Warming Shelter this year as part of a recent request for proposal, although concerns about the shelter's management last winter led to increased responses from Somersworth Fire, EMS, and Police due to various incidents.

As Rochester continues to grapple with the challenges posed by homelessness, city officials are working to balance the need for public safety with the need for compassionate solutions for those experiencing homelessness. However, the recent fires and the proximity of encampments to schools have heightened concerns within the community, prompting a call for more decisive action to address the ongoing crisis.

For now, residents are urged to stay away from the areas affected by the encampments for their safety and to report any suspicious activity to the police.

The information for this article was sourced from Rochester Police Department press releases.