Underground tunnel near Fresno railroad tracks was apparent homeless shelter

A man who built an underground tunnel next to railroad tracks in east central Fresno, apparently as a homeless camp, left the structure Tuesday at the urging of authorities.

The wooden structure and tunnel is located near North Clovis and East Mckinley avenues, on a right-of-way under the control of the San Joaquin Valley Railroad.

Fresno County Sheriff’s spokesman Tony Botti said deputies noticed the tunnel and contacted railroad officials. The officials in turn reported that they were aware of the tunnel, and that anything within 25 feet of the right of way is a danger.

Tuesday afternoon, a freight train stood by while the occupant was convinced to leave.

It appeared that the man had spent several days building the tunnel, Botti said.

This story was originally published February 25, 2020 at 1:52 PM.