Daughters of Deceased Army Veteran Demand Answers After Body Found in Westlake Encampment

The daughters of Lucrecia Macias Barajas, a 46-year-old U.S. Army veteran, have come forward following the tragic discovery of her lifeless body in a Westlake homeless encampment. 

This incident has sparked concerns regarding the Los Angeles Police Department’s management of the case.

On May 12, Barajas was discovered by one of her three daughters, who located her mother’s cellphone, leading to a large, tarp-covered shelter situated in a cul-de-sac notorious for homelessness and drug-related activities. Upon entering the premises, the daughter made a grim discovery: the body of her mother alongside that of an unidentified man, as well as two dogs that had survived the ordeal.

A video recorded by a resident documented a poignant moment as a daughter fell to the ground in sorrow, subsequently urging officers to take away her mother’s body. 

The Los Angeles Police Department has classified the incident as a suspected drug overdose; however, the family expresses skepticism and calls for greater transparency in the investigation.

Barajas, a military veteran, has been reported to face challenges related to housing instability and substance use. Her daughters argue that, given her service and the surrounding circumstances, the situation warranted a more urgent and dignified response. Concerns have been raised regarding the police's communication, the timeline of the investigation, and the absence of immediate care for the surviving dogs.

The LAPD has yet to provide a formal cause of death, and there has been no comment regarding the family's concerns. In a recent development, the daughters have initiated a call for an independent review and increased support for veterans experiencing homelessness.

The death of Barajas highlights significant challenges confronting veterans grappling with homelessness in Los Angeles. In this city, mental health services, addiction treatment, and housing resources frequently fall short of demand.

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