A Louisville man who was known to live outdoors in the Russell neighborhood died Saturday as a significant winter storm moved into the area.
Mayor Craig Greenberg said Wednesday that the man found outside in freezing temperatures was 55-year-old Richard Marshall. He was taken to Jewish Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, according to the Jefferson County Coroner. The coroner’s report listed the preliminary cause of death as consistent with hypothermia.
Greenberg warned that Louisville will continue to face dangerously cold conditions in the days ahead.
“There is literally ice in the Ohio River right now,” Greenberg said in a video posted to social media. “Please check on loved ones, family, friends, and neighbors. We have people out there who can provide assistance, helping those who are outside and bringing them in.”
According to a WDRB report, Marshall was a well-known and beloved presence in the Russell neighborhood and often spent time near a local tire shop. A friend told the station he was “a real intelligent young man” who fell on hard times after witnessing a traumatic event.
In response to the severe winter weather, several homeless shelters in Louisville have expanded their overnight capacity. The Coalition for the Homeless said approximately 100 additional beds are currently available.
The nonprofit St. John Center and Volunteers of America Mid-States have also received city funding to temporarily house people experiencing homelessness in hotel rooms.
Greenberg said Metro’s Homeless Engagement and Assessment Response (HEART) Team is available to provide transportation to shelters. Public libraries across the city are also open during normal business hours to offer a place to warm up.
Anyone seeking help for themselves or someone else can contact the HEART Team at (502) 574-5050 or submit an outreach referral through the St. John Center’s online form.
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