Complaints about squatters filed before east Indy house fires [Video]

According to the city’s Department of Business and Neighborhood Services, they’ve received several complaints for both properties over the last year.

INDIANAPOLIS — Angel Mercado watched from across the street as fire crews fought large fires at three homes in the 400 block of Hamilton Avenue, near Southeastern and South State avenues on the near east side of Indianapolis, shortly before 1 a.m. Monday, Oct. 7.

Mercado said while two of the homes were vacant, people had certainly been living there.

“I’ve seen them carrying groceries into the place. I’ve seen them order food and get it delivered to the house and what not,” said Mercado, who lives nearby.

An egg carton, juice and plastic bottles are just some of the trash you can see scattered in the front yard.

Greg Buck, who has been living on Hamilton Avenue for 11 years, said he just called the Mayor’s Action Center …