La Muerte de la Misin, housing project on site of lethal S.F. fire, OKd by city

The San Francisco Planning Commission narrowly approved a 181-unit apartment complex at the site of a deadly 2015 fire, known as “La Muerte de la Misión,” with a 4-3 vote. Activists, including Larissa Pedroncelli from United to Save the Mission, condemned the decision, stating that only 19 of the units would be affordable, exacerbating gentrification and displacement in the area. The project’s developer, Hawk Lou, faced allegations of faulty maintenance related to the fire that killed 38-year-old Mauricio Orellana, although Lou attributes the blaze to a tenant’s cooking. Three commissioners opposed the project, voicing concerns over its unaffordability and the state density-bonus law that facilitated its approval. Supervisor Jackie Fielder remarked that the lot might remain empty despite the approval, citing market unprofitability for investors.

The project’s passage reflects ongoing tensions between development interests and community needs in San Francisco. The debate highlights the challenges of balancing housing demands and socio-economic equity in urban planning. Activists continue to advocate for truly affordable housing solutions in the Mission District.