Police investigating after body discovered following fire at Jacksonville strip club

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A fire broke out at Mascaras Gentlemen’s Club on Southside Boulevard and police say a man’s body was pulled from the fire.

Police are still working on identifying the victim.

Richard Burnoski, the manager for the club property, said the victim found inside may have been homeless and trying to keep warm overnight.

“I feel terrible for him. This was a tragedy,” Burnoski said.

We were told the area of the club that caught fire was being used for storage.

Action News Jax Alicia Tarancon investigated what the city is doing to address the homeless problem.

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Shortly after the Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department discovered the body, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office homicide unit began investigating around 10 p.m. on Sunday.

Burnoski said with a homeless camp nearby off Southside Boulevard, people wander onto Mascaras’ property all the time.

“There’s a major homeless problem around here that’s gotten worst. They’re constantly trespassing illegally,” he said.

We also noticed that JSO has put up several “no trespassing” signs nearby.

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When it comes to addressing the homeless problem, Burnoski says he’s not sure what the best solution is. “The police are doing the best they can, but it’s kind of catch and release right now.”

Action News Jax reached out to council member Kevin Carrico, since Mascaras is located in his district, and he texted this statement:

“I am troubled to hear of the recent news that a life was lost this way. I have been working with JSO and local property owners along the Beach Blvd. corridor for almost a year coming up with solutions to the crime, safety, and homelessness in the area. As you know these are complicated issues. Most recently JSO gave advice to the owners about how to report and prevent trespassing and I’m currently working on legislation to help our officers with an ordinance to enforce action against illegal camping on public property. At the end of the day, we want to see the people who are homeless seek treatment and help but if they break the laws we must enforce them to keep our citizens safe.”

The state fire marshal is looking into what could have started the fire.

Anyone with information is asked to contact JSO.

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