Law enforcement agencies across Central Florida are increasing patrols of homeless encampments as wildfire risks escalate throughout the region. Officials are focusing efforts on preventing fires that may start accidentally or intentionally within these camps.
Over the past five days, nearly 20 wildfires have been reported, according to Florida Forestry Service data. While authorities have not conclusively linked all of these incidents to homeless encampments, investigations suggest that several fires may have originated from them.
In a recent incident in Palm Bay, a patrol vehicle caught fire while officers were inspecting a homeless camp near Onyx Drive. The blaze forced nearby residents to evacuate as emergency crews worked to contain the situation. Details regarding the cause of the patrol car fire have not been fully released, and officials have yet to confirm whether the flames were accidental or set intentionally…