OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - City officials are addressing an issue they say is getting worse, fires at abandoned properties, as folks seek shelter from mother nature.

Mayor John Ewing was joined by Omaha Fire Chief Kathy Bossman for a news conference on Tuesday to talk about possible solutions.

People experiencing homelessness recently set a building on Saddle Creek Road near Hamilton street on fire, that is according to OFD.

That blaze sent three people to the hospital and it is one of 35 fires Omaha Fire has investigated at vacant buildings this year.

“Occasionally these fires are started by individuals who are dealing with homelessness and prefer not to seek shelter,” said Omaha Fire Chief Kathy Bossman.

As temperatures drop, city officials say many look to a vacant property to keep war

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