"Devastating Impact: Over 2,000 Homeless Deaths in LA Linked to Housing and Fentanyl Crises"

More than 2,000 unhoused people died in Los Angeles in 2023, with deaths increasing every year, revealing a humanitarian emergency as the housing crisis and drug addiction epidemic collide. The data, obtained from the LA county medical examiner, is likely an undercount, and the crisis is greater than captured. The deaths highlight challenges facing unhoused people, including fentanyl-related deaths, high rates of violence, untreated illnesses, and lack of affordable housing. The data also shows disparities in deaths among different racial groups and the impact of severe weather events on those living outside. Individual stories illustrate the struggles and tragedies faced by unhoused individuals, shedding light on the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address homelessness and its associated crises.