Haglund Foundation Condemns Violence in CHAZ Zone

Residents and unsheltered need access to emergency services without interference

SEATTLE, WA – Carl Haglund, Founder and CEO of the Carl Haglund Foundation, expressed shock and concern after this week’s fatal shooting of a 19-year-old in the CHAZ zone. “We have citizens, homeless and small business owners who are essentially living without the protection of law enforcement, ambulance service or the fire department. The shooting death of a young man highlights this crisis for everyone to see. It is a tragic event that should never have happened.”

Haglund called on the Mayor and the City Council to accept responsibility for the chaos in the so-called “autonomous zone” and put an end to the violence. “These folks are paying their taxes and not getting any services. That is completely unfair. They need to make sure that all emergency services have access to Capitol Hill and that they are responding to calls for help. Anything less is an abdication of their responsibilities as our elected officials” Haglund noted.

Haglund also expressed concern for the unsheltered living in the CHAZ zone, noting that this population is especially vulnerable and needs elevated access to medical services. “Many of our homeless citizens are also suffering from depression, mental health issues and opioid addiction. For most, their only access to health care is through the city’s emergency services. If street violence is preventing the police, fire and ambulance services from getting through, they are being victimized twice.”

The Carl Haglund Foundation advocates for citizens suffering from homelessness and opioid addiction. More information can be found at www.carlhaglundfoundation.com.