Shreveport neighbors push for demolition of collapsed Odin Street unit

SHREVEPORT, La. — Neighbors are calling for the immediate destruction of a collapsed townhouse at 1401 Odin St. that has remained in ruins since a fire in early May.

Residents living in adjoining units testified Tuesday before the Shreveport environmental court, saying the situation has become a health hazard. They reported mold is spreading through shared walls from the fire-damaged structure.

"Yesterday, it was pouring down raining in there," said neighbor Monica Gibson. "It stinks. It's got, you know, all that burnt charge stuff is now molding. It's just a disaster."

The property owner told the court she has struggled to find a contractor capable of handling the complex demolition. She claimed she recently received a $35,000 quote specifically to remove the debris.

In response to the delays, the city has issued a formal judgment to step in and clear the site. Officials plan to bill the owner for the total cost of the project if she cannot start the work herself.

Gibson expressed frustration with the timeline of the recovery efforts.

"We just can't keep delaying," Gibson said. "Getting this estimate, getting that estimate — it's just too much. That's basically what's going to have to happen."