Denver, Colorado – The Salvation Army has acknowledged the deaths at a former hotel shelter in Denver as a troubling consequence of a preexisting issue in homeless encampments around the city. The organization’s revelation comes in the wake of a double homicide that prompted new security measures to be implemented at the facility.
Over the course of four months, nearly 500 calls were made to the police regarding incidents at the former DoubleTree hotel, which now serves as a shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness in Denver. The Salvation Army, responsible for operating the shelter, highlighted that the recent deaths are indicative of a larger problem that has now become concentrated in one location.
Nesan Kistan, a divisional commander with the Salvation Army, emphasized that deaths, including those resulting from overdoses, had unfortunately occurred in various facilities. Data from the Denver Medical Examiner’s Office revealed that seven individuals had passed away at the DoubleTree shelter since the beginning of the year, with investigations ongoing into most of these cases.
The tragic culmination of events took place on March 16, with the discovery of two individuals shot to death inside the hotel-turned-shelter. Subsequently, the city of Denver intervened to assume control of security at the former DoubleTree, redirecting resources to enhance safety measures at the facility, a decision both mandated by the city and sanctioned by the Salvation Army.
Kistan clarified that the Salvation Army had willingly transferred security responsibilities to the city, recognizing the need for a more robust security infrastructure. The organization’s contract with the city includes financial provisions for security protocols and the hiring of security personnel, with plans to augment existing measures to ensure the safety of both residents and staff.
In response to the security concerns, the city has stationed security officers at shelter entrances to regulate access, and is in the process of implementing a badging system with photo ID cards for residents and staff. The increased surveillance measures, inside and outside the building, aim to fortify security and prevent further incidents.
Despite the heightened security measures, Kistan reiterated the organization’s commitment to providing a supportive and welcoming environment for individuals seeking shelter and assistance. He emphasized that the facilities are not operated as prisons, but rather as spaces for transformation and support in line with the Salvation Army’s mission.