Lucrecia Macias Barajas dies in fatal Westlake homeless encampment discovery

Lucrecia Macias Barajas dies in fatal Westlake homeless encampment discovery

Fatal Westlake homeless encampment death of Lucrecia Macias Barajas – Obituary

Lucrecia Macias Barajas, a 46-year-old mother of six and U.S. Army veteran, was found deceased alongside a man in a tent at a homeless encampment in Westlake on Monday, May 12, 2025.

According to authorities, her daughter had been searching for her and eventually discovered the bodies after cutting into a tent that was locked from within on Huntley Drive. Law enforcement said dogs were present in the tent and had begun feeding on the remains.

Barajas’ death shocked nearby residents, many of whom expressed sorrow and frustration over the city’s handling of the homeless crisis. A neighbor shared that the encampment had become a hotspot for drug activity, and residents’ repeated reports to the city had gone unanswered.

Her family has launched a fundraiser to cover funeral expenses and honor her military service. The incident occurred the same day Governor Gavin Newsom called on local governments to take stronger action on homelessness, criticizing inaction that he said was costing lives.

City Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez responded to the tragedy, promising that her office is working with city agencies and community groups to provide support and address the ongoing encampment issues in the area.