Volunteers Step Up to Protect Demolition Sites Along the Guadalupe River
In Kerrville, Texas, volunteers Regina Guevara and Linc Myers have taken it upon themselves to safeguard property that is set for demolition along the Guadalupe River. Their efforts are driven by a growing concern over looting and theft in the area. As homes scheduled for removal are prepared for destruction, items such as appliances and other valuables are often left on the roadside, making them vulnerable to theft.
Guevara shared her experience, stating, “I was literally just guarding people’s possessions.” She explained that the situation has become increasingly challenging, as many individuals see these discarded items as an opportunity for easy gain. In San Antonio, she noted, there’s an unspoken rule about what can be taken from a home. “If you put it on your curb, it’s free. If it’s, like, back towards your house, you don’t touch it, right? And that didn’t apply this week, I guess, or last.”
The problem isn’t limited to household appliances. Looters are also targeting scrap metal, which has led to additional complications. Myers mentioned that it can be difficult to distinguish between those who are genuinely working to remove scrap and those looking to profit from the situation. “People that come in with their existing small business, scrap metal, they got a big trailer on them, and they’re either just looking willy-nilly to grab whatever it is, or to give Regina or somebody else a problem.”
Pamela Allen, CEO of Eagle’s Flight SA, is also involved in the effort to clear out homes slated for demolition. She emphasized the challenges of the task, particularly because some items must remain outside for extended periods while mud and debris are removed from the homes. “What is it, at least 100 miles of river that has been affected? How do you protect those homeowners along that line?” she asked, highlighting the difficulty of ensuring safety across such a vast area.
Allen stressed the importance of protecting these properties, especially for homeowners who are already dealing with the stress of losing their homes. “That’s a really hard thing with all that they’ve got going on,” she said.
Efforts to address the issue are ongoing. Local law enforcement is being consulted to determine the full scope of the problem. While the weekend may offer a temporary reprieve, the situation remains a priority for those involved. As more information becomes available, updates will be provided to ensure that the community is informed and supported throughout this challenging time.
Volunteers like Guevara and Myers continue their work, driven by a sense of responsibility and a desire to protect those affected by the demolition process. Their efforts underscore the importance of community involvement in addressing local issues and supporting those in need.
