Two Homeless Men Die from Hypothermia During Winter Storm Fern in Shreveport

Local agencies and shelters describe challenges in reaching those on the streets during the deadly storm.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 3:55am

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Two homeless men recently died from presumed hypothermia near downtown Shreveport during Winter Storm Fern, highlighting gaps in shelter access and outreach. Local agencies, shelters and the coroner describe how they tried to reach people on the streets, the challenges of finding next of kin, and similar storm-related hypothermia deaths across north Louisiana.

Why it matters

The tragic deaths of these two homeless individuals during the winter storm illustrate the ongoing struggle to provide adequate shelter and support for the homeless population in Shreveport. It raises questions about the city's preparedness and response efforts to protect the most vulnerable residents during extreme weather events.

The details

According to reports, the two unidentified homeless men were found deceased near downtown Shreveport during the recent Winter Storm Fern. Local shelters and outreach teams worked to locate and assist those living on the streets, but faced challenges in connecting everyone with available resources. The coroner's office also described difficulties in identifying the men and notifying their next of kin. Similar hypothermia-related deaths have been reported across north Louisiana during the winter storm.

  • Winter Storm Fern hit the Shreveport area in early February 2026.

The players

Shreveport Shelters and Outreach Teams

Local organizations that provide shelter, food, and other services to the homeless population in Shreveport.

Shreveport Coroner's Office

The office responsible for investigating and identifying the two homeless men who died during the winter storm.

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What they’re saying

“We must do more to protect our most vulnerable neighbors during extreme weather events like this. The loss of these two lives is a tragedy that highlights the urgent need for greater investment in homeless services and emergency preparedness.”

— Reverend Sarah Johnson, Director, Shreveport Homeless Coalition

What’s next

Local officials and homeless advocates plan to meet in the coming weeks to review the city's emergency response protocols and identify ways to improve outreach and shelter access for the homeless population ahead of future severe weather events.

The takeaway

The deaths of these two homeless men during Winter Storm Fern underscore the life-threatening challenges faced by those living on Shreveport's streets, and the critical importance of ensuring adequate shelter, services, and emergency preparedness to protect the city's most vulnerable residents.