LOS ANGELES A man who was found dead Saturday across the street from a popular beachside hotel was identified Thursday as George Hernandez, a 52-year-old who is believed to have been living on the streets at the time of his death.
Hernandez is the second homeless person to be found dead in Santa Monica in the last two months, authorities said.
The cause of death has been deferred while the coroner’s office awaits the results of further tests, however, a spokesman at the Santa Monica Police Department said Hernandez showed signs of gastro-intestinal bleeding, possibly related to damage caused by alcoholism. There appeared to be no evidence of foul play.
Officials had trouble locating Hernandez’ daughter, and therefore, could not release the name of the deceased until Thursday.
Hernandez was found around 12:40 p.m. in the 1700 block of Ocean Avenue, directly across the street from the Loew’s Hotel, said SMPD Lt. Alex Padilla.
On the morning of March 29, the body of Elizabeth Bernice Celaya was found outside a beach bathroom about a mile south of the Santa Monica Pier, according to police.
She was 48 years old and believed to be homeless.
John Maceri, the director of OPCC, a homeless services provider, said those without a home are vulnerable to violence and often lead unhealthy lifestyles. Untimely deaths are somewhat expected and have become one of the biggest challenges providers face in their work.
“Over the years, we’ve had memorials for clients who have died on the streets,” Maceri said. “I think it’s just a reminder that we are all vulnerable, especially those who are living on the street.”
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on May 18, 2007. Read the original PDF.