LAS VEGAS (KSNV MyNews3) -- New numbers show a harsh future for southern Nevada's homeless population.
The Clark County coroner's office reports so far this year, 74 people have died on the streets, which is 14 more than all of last year.
Dozens of people came together tonight to remember the victims at a homeless memorial.
The organization, Straight from the Streets, made its own twist to the event. They say Thursday was the 16th annual Homeless Memorial Candlelight Vigil in Las Vegas.
To the beat of raindrops, names were called off one by one of lives that ended on the streets of Las Vegas.
More than 75 people honored the homeless who passed away so far this year.
With the aid of HELP of Southern Nevada, Kimberly Brown joins others who now have a roof over their heads. But remembering those who passed away without one, on this rainy day, can't be any more symbolic.
“This is what the homeless go through, and this is designed to show people we're only going to be out here an hour, hour and a half,” Brown said. “Some people are going to be out here for days.”
It's a situation still very raw for Alfa Martinez and his girlfriend, Melody.
“We've been living outside for three years,” Martinez said. “This weather is nothing.”
Those here are hoping to shed light on a dark problem: More local homeless residents died this year than last.
But for those who have died, the community is recognizing their struggles and remembering those who once called the streets home.
