NYC Homeless Death Toll Rises to 18 Amid Freezing Temps

Mayor Mamdani's policies criticized as contributing to the deaths

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The death toll of homeless individuals in New York City has risen to 18 amid a brutal cold spell, with Mayor Zohran Mamdani's policies of not dismantling homeless encampments and forcing people indoors being blamed as a contributing factor. The latest victim was an 86-year-old man found unresponsive on the street.

Why it matters

The high number of homeless deaths during the cold weather has sparked outrage, with critics arguing that Mamdani's progressive policies have failed to adequately protect the city's most vulnerable residents. The situation raises questions about the balance between individual liberty and public safety, as well as the role of government in addressing homelessness.

The details

According to reports, the 18 deaths occurred over the past month since Mamdani took office. His policy of not allowing police to dismantle homeless encampments and force people indoors has been criticized as contributing to the fatalities. Shelter workers have described the harrowing experience of finding victims frozen on the streets. The latest victim, an 86-year-old man, was discovered unresponsive on a Bronx sidewalk.

  • Mamdani has been mayor of New York City for just over a month.
  • The 18 homeless deaths have occurred during this time period.
  • The latest victim was found on Saturday, February 8, 2026.

The players

Zohran Mamdani

The current mayor of New York City, who has implemented policies that critics say have contributed to the high number of homeless deaths during the cold weather.

Charles Williams

An 86-year-old homeless man who was the latest victim found frozen on the streets of New York City.

Adam Faad

A 26-year-old security worker at a homeless shelter who was volunteering at a warming center and discovered the latest victim.

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What they’re saying

“Each loss of life is a tragedy. We will continue to hold their families in our thoughts.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City (The New York Post)

“I couldn't help him.”

— Adam Faad, Shelter worker (The New York Post)

What’s next

Mayor Mamdani has faced growing criticism over his handling of the homeless crisis, and there are calls for him to reconsider his policies and take more aggressive action to protect vulnerable residents during extreme weather conditions.

The takeaway

The tragic deaths of 18 homeless individuals in New York City during a brutal cold spell have highlighted the complex challenges of addressing homelessness and the need to balance individual liberty with public safety. The situation has sparked a broader debate about the role of government and the effectiveness of progressive policies in protecting the most vulnerable members of society.