PORT TOWNSEND — The death of a man whose body was found with tarps and a sleeping bag in Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park on Monday afternoon sparked more discussion about camping in the park and the fate of homeless people.
Port Townsend police believe that the man, estimated to be in his 60s — and who they won’t identify until they have notified his next of kin — was sleeping in the park, and that his death has a medical cause.
They do not suspect foul play, and said that drugs or alcohol were not a factor.
The dead man was found in a campsite just off the public trail that runs through the park.
It was not known how long he had been there.
The cause of death is under investigation.
Police are working with Olympic Community Action Programs to contact the man’s family.
The Port Townsend City Council has discussed prohibiting camping in city parks.
Right now, camping in city parks is legal.
Just a few weeks ago, on Feb. 4, Councilwoman Catharine Robinson said, “My concern is that some day, someone will be found dead from exposure, from hunger, whatever.”
