A fire broke out Tuesday morning at a North Park residence that neighbors say had been taken over by squatters. San Diego Fire-Rescue Department crews were dispatched to the single-story home at 3384 Dale St. 

shortly before 6 a.m. after the fire ignited. Firefighters quickly controlled the flames, and no injuries were immediately reported. Witnesses informed a news outlet that they saw several people fleeing through an alley after the fire started.

Several residents recently filed a lawsuit against the property owner, describing rampant criminal activity at the location. Additionally, residents pointed out that trash had piled up in the backyard, causing a foul odor that permeates the neighborhood. Neighbors claim to have filed complaints with the San Diego Police Department and the City of San Diego about this home and another nearby property for several months. Before filing the lawsuit, some residents even placed chains on the fences surrounding the homes to keep the squatters out.

The residents who banded together to file the lawsuit said they are still waiting for a response from the property owner.