Neighbors in Albuquerque’s International District are raising safety concerns about a foreclosed property on San Pedro Drive SE.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Neighbors in Albuquerque’s International District are raising safety concerns about a foreclosed property on San Pedro Drive SE.
The home, now owned by Wells Fargo after a December foreclosure, is reportedly a hotspot for squatters. Debris and broken windows are visible, and unhoused individuals say it serves as a makeshift shelter.
“Essentially, this is the homeless shelter,” said Rihannan, an unhoused resident. “There’s literally nowhere else safe where you’re not just going to be, you know, be set upon by other people at random hours of the night.”
Zac Moss, a neighbor, has witnessed drug use, fires, and possible sex crimes linked to the property. He is urging the city to take action.
“I wish they would have gone back a year and demolished it or sold it to someone that promised to put it into a living space,” said Moss. “Like, right now it, it’s not good for anyone you know, like, let’s clear it so it’s a clear lot, so that someone can start fresh.”
Safety concerns
Fires are often lit for warmth, posing significant risks. Rihannan highlighted the dangers, saying, “Nobody feels safe staying in a location like this. There’s all kinds of apparent risks from sexual assault, murder, being caught up with other people who are at risk of catching charges, but it’s literally entirely unsafe outside.”
Albuquerque Fire Rescue responded to six calls at the property in 2025, including twice in February, and in November and December. Another call was made Tuesday, Dec. 13.
A report is expected, but action on the home may be delayed. Meanwhile, Albuquerque police were on the scene again Wednesday.
