Arson victims sleeping on the streets… [video interview]
Hyannis – Recent scientific studies show that pessimistic people are actually living longer than optimists; so at least some of us have that going for us, unfortunately.
However, most fellow pessimists realize when things get really rough, there are always those who have it much rougher.
Today’s HyTown Vignette is about a small family suddenly forced to live on the streets through no fault of their own.
This past August 18th, Hyannis News covered a story where an 89-year-old grandmother was burnt out of her home by at least one arsonist. Neighbors and witnesses believe the fire was intentionally set by a belligerent gang of local “yutes.” Others believe it could have been local “druggies.”
Click here to read that August 18th story.
Despite the best efforts of firefighters, the duplex was left in unlivable condition. Tenants from both sides were left homeless.
The 89-year-old woman affectionately known to neighbors and family as “Nanna,” has recovered from smoke inhalation and is currently staying with relatives.
According to Barnstable Police Detective Lieutenant Sean Balcom, this arson is still being robustly investigated.
But according to some frustrated people affected by this fire, the investigation is not moving fast enough…
Members of Nanna’s family are very concerned the landlord will not allow their mother to return to her home when it’s finally safe to live in again. They’re not happy with the out-of-town landlord for refusing to renew Nanna’s lease, stating the landlord has been less than reasonable.
Times are tough.
Last week Hyannis News ran into and interviewed the second family displaced by this fire. Like Nanna, Tina Briggs, a 15 year tenant of 52 Fresh Holes Road, is homeless and not welcomed back to her home after it becomes livable again.
Tina and her live-in boyfriend unfortunately don’t have family to fall back on and are currently sleeping outside near the Hyannis Town Green.
Tina agreed to go on camera and tell about her current situation. Here is Tina’s story [press play]:
I put Tina's story on Hyannis News not just because I found her a very pleasant person to talk to, but because I'm hoping at least one of my readers will be able to reach out to her in some way.
There are still many unanswered questions for Tina regarding her legal rights and where she's going to wind up next. Hyannis News readers are encouraged to reach out Tina, either directly or through my email at rjbastille@yahoo.com. I will do my best to relay your messages.
As we count our blessings tonight, we are reminded there are families who suddenly find themselves outside sleeping on the ground through no fault of their own.
Hyannis News will provide updates to this story as they become available.
9/16/2013
Robert Bastille, HyannisNews.com
Tonight's HyTown Vignette is brought to you by Looking Glass, a simple reminder of our humble beginnings as both natives and wash-a-shores alike. May God bless us and keep us. [press play]
