Santos Ortiz, a 38-year-old homeless man, died in the early hours of October 7, 2023, after a garbage truck accidentally reversed over him while he was sleeping on Spring Street in Downtown Lowell, Massachusetts. His companion, a woman whose name has not been disclosed, sustained injuries and is currently hospitalized, with her condition remaining unknown.
In remembrance of Ortiz, family and friends gathered for a celebration of his life on October 14 at Red’s Club, part of the Portuguese American Civic League. Following the event, attendees held a candlelight vigil, moving from Red’s to the site of the tragic incident, where they paid tribute to his life with flowers and candles.
According to a memorial posted by the McDonough Funeral Home, Ortiz was born in Carolina, Puerto Rico, and spent his formative years in Lowell, graduating from high school in Groton. The obituary described him affectionately as “Mr. Mean,” highlighting his big heart, humor, and vibrant personality. Ortiz worked for many years as a cook at the Papa Gino’s on Wood Street and later continued his culinary career at the Glenview Restaurant, where he was a beloved figure in the community.
The circumstances surrounding Ortiz’s death reflect broader issues faced by the homeless community in Lowell. Previous reports indicated that Ortiz and his companion had been sleeping on Spring Street after being repeatedly asked to vacate other areas of the city, including South Common. Christine Travis, a member of the homeless community, explained, “We sleep on the benches at the park, and they keep moving us, so we have to sleep on the street, and that is what was going on here.”
In response to the growing homelessness issue, the Lowell City Council adopted an ordinance in November 2022 making it illegal to camp in public areas. Councilor Wayne Jenness was the only member to vote against this measure. Since then, the city has carried out multiple encampment sweeps, which have forced many unhoused individuals toward areas like the Back Central neighborhood. The city’s actions have resulted in a ban on outdoor sleeping in public spaces, such as South Common, exacerbating the plight of those without stable housing.
On a recent Saturday night, observers noted numerous individuals huddled in doorways and parking lots, seeking shelter, while South Common was devoid of both the homeless and other residents.
The death of Santos Ortiz serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to homelessness in cities like Lowell. Community members are left to mourn his passing while grappling with the broader implications of city policies and their impact on the lives of the unhoused.
