Gunshots heard in east side neighborhood by residents
Residents in a local neighborhood have long been pleading for assistance in addressing the persistent issue of gunfire, according to a community advocate.
The online neighborhood watch thread erupted into a frenzy on Monday at 9:28 p.m., as residents near the intersection of Polaris and Center Streets alerted each other to a prolonged barrage of gunfire that reverberated across several blocks. Within a mere 20 seconds, over a dozen shots were discharged.
Homeowners in the east side neighborhood, who have been exchanging surveillance footage for months, attempted to pinpoint the origin of the gunfire to aid law enforcement in their investigation. Despite their efforts, the police were unable to pinpoint the source of the attack.
Elizabeth, a vocal advocate for peace in the area, expressed frustration on behalf of the neighborhood residents, emphasizing that they have been seeking assistance in addressing the ongoing gunfire for an extended period. She described the situation as “controlled chaos” and stressed the urgency of the issue.
Despite collaborating with law enforcement and implementing various security measures, including surveillance cameras and community engagement efforts, residents have not seen a significant reduction in the incidents of gunfire. Elizabeth highlighted the lack of tangible action from the authorities despite assurances of intervention.
In a recent incident just a few blocks away, a 40-year-old man was shot on St. James Street after confronting individuals in a vehicle near his residence. The perpetrator remains at large, underscoring the persistent threat of gun violence in the neighborhood. Elizabeth recounted another instance where she was met with a sudden burst of gunfire shortly after arriving home, expressing a sense of defeat and disillusionment with the situation.
Despite repeated requests for a formal interview, the San Antonio Police Department declined to provide a statement on camera, offering reassurances through their Public Information Office. They noted a decline in aggravated assaults and homicides from the previous year while affirming ongoing investigations into the recent shootings. Residents were urged to report any information to the Homicide Unit.
The SAPD East Substation conducts regular meetings for residents to voice their concerns, although the schedule for the next meeting remains unspecified. This lack of concrete action and resolution leaves the neighborhood residents grappling with the looming threat of gun violence and a sense of unease.
