Tim Allen, a 56-year-old participant in the City of San Diego’s Safe Sleeping Program, has become the 19th person to die at one of the city’s two safe sleeping sites since the initiative began in June 2023. His death has renewed concerns about safety, overdose prevention, and living conditions within the program, while his family and legal representatives continue to call for accountability.
The City of San Diego launched its Safe Sleeping Program to provide temporary shelter for people experiencing homelessness while reducing unsafe camping on public streets. However, a growing number of deaths at these sites has sparked public discussion about whether enough is being done to protect vulnerable residents. The latest death, involving Tim Allen, has once again focused attention on the program and the challenges it faces.
Tragedy
Tim Allen was found dead inside his tent on Monday morning at the O Lot safe sleeping site, located near the Naval Medical Center on Welch Road.
According to the San Diego Police Department, officers responded around 7 a.m. after receiving reports of a deceased individual inside a tent. Investigators found evidence suggesting narcotics use, and the case is currently being investigated as a suspected overdose. The San Diego County Medical Examiner will determine the official cause of death.
His passing marks the 19th confirmed death connected to San Diego’s Safe Sleeping Program.
Family
Tim’s fraternal twin brother, James Allen, described him as a caring, intelligent, and hardworking man who remained hopeful despite his struggles.
James shared that he had spoken with Tim just days before his death, saying his brother was excited about attending an upcoming collector card show together.
He remembered Tim by saying he had a big heart, loved helping others, and was deeply cared for by family and friends.
Tim is survived by his three children.
Concerns
Tim Allen was already known publicly for speaking out about conditions inside the city’s safe sleeping sites.
During a press conference in 2025, he joined seven other participants in raising concerns about safety, sanitation, and mental health challenges within the program.
Tim explained that after San Diego strengthened enforcement against sidewalk camping in 2023, he felt he had little choice but to move into one of the city-operated safe sleeping locations.
He also spoke openly about struggling with PTSD and anxiety while living at the site.
Lawsuit
Tim was among the plaintiffs in a federal class-action lawsuit filed against the City of San Diego, Dreams for Change, and the Downtown San Diego Partnership.
The lawsuit alleges that conditions at the safe sleeping sites were unsafe and failed to provide adequate protection for residents.
Civil rights attorney Ann Menasche, who represented Tim, said the legal case will continue despite his passing.
She said she hopes the lawsuit will lead to improvements that benefit other people still participating in the program.
Deaths
Since the Safe Sleeping Program opened in June 2023, Team 10 has confirmed 19 participant deaths.
| Year | Total Deaths | 20th & B | O Lot |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2024 | 9 | 2 | 7 |
| 2025 | 6 | 2 | 4 |
| 2026 | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| Total | 19 | 5 | 14 |
While several deaths have been confirmed as overdose-related, the causes of many others have not yet been publicly released.
Response
The rising death toll has prompted questions from city leaders.
San Diego City Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera previously raised concerns during a council meeting after reports of multiple deaths at the shelter sites.
He said every preventable death involving individuals participating in a city program is deeply concerning and questioned whether current overdose prevention measures are sufficient.
According to Elo-Rivera, if existing safety efforts are not preventing fatalities, the city should evaluate whether additional measures are needed to reduce future risks.
Program
The Safe Sleeping Program was created to provide a temporary alternative to unsheltered homelessness by offering monitored tent spaces with access to restrooms, security, and supportive services.
The two sites currently operate near Balboa Park Golf Course at 20th & B Street and at the O Lot near the Naval Medical Center.
Supporters say the program offers a safer alternative than living on sidewalks, while critics argue additional improvements are needed to address medical emergencies, substance use, and overall living conditions.
Investigation
The City of San Diego stated that participant health, safety, and well-being remain its highest priority.
City officials said questions regarding individual causes of death should be directed to the San Diego County Medical Examiner, which is responsible for determining the official findings.
Meanwhile, investigations into several deaths connected to the program remain ongoing.
The death of Tim Allen has brought renewed attention to San Diego’s Safe Sleeping Program and the challenges involved in protecting vulnerable residents. As investigations continue and the federal lawsuit moves forward, city officials, advocates, and families continue to examine whether additional measures could help improve safety and reduce future tragedies.
FAQs
Who was Tim Allen?
A 56-year-old Safe Sleeping Program participant.
How many deaths have occurred?
Nineteen deaths since June 2023.
Where was Tim Allen found?
Inside his tent at the O Lot site.
What is the suspected cause?
Police are investigating a possible overdose.
Is the lawsuit still active?
Yes, the federal lawsuit is ongoing.
