Over the past three months, a troubling pattern has emerged along the Santa Ana River Trail. As of last night—July 10, 2025—there have been multiple shootings near the 17th Street Bridge in Santa Ana, raising serious concerns about public safety on one of the city’s most popular recreational paths.

The Santa Ana River Trail is more than just a bike path—it’s a vital artery for commuters, fitness enthusiasts, and families looking to enjoy a peaceful stretch of nature within an urban environment. But with recent incidents concentrated in the evening hours, many residents are asking: How safe is it really to use the trail after dark?

A Pattern of Violence

While crime can occur anywhere, the frequency of shootings near the 17th St. Bridge over the past 90 days suggests a troubling hotspot. These incidents not only endanger those using the trail but also cast a shadow over the sense of security that should accompany outdoor recreation.

Most of the crimes reported occurred during twilight or nighttime hours, prompting understandable concern among joggers, cyclists, and pedestrians who rely on the trail for exercise and transportation. The question now isn’t just whether these crimes are isolated events—but whether they signal a broader issue that demands immediate attention.

Where Is Law Enforcement?

Many residents are also questioning the presence and effectiveness of patrols by the Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD) along the river trail within city limits. While SAPD does conduct regular patrols in the area, the recent spate of violence raises concerns about whether current efforts are sufficient to deter criminal activity.

We urge SAPD to provide transparency regarding their patrol schedules and strategies for securing this critical public space. Increased visibility—particularly during high-risk hours—could go a long way toward restoring community confidence and preventing further incidents.

Additionally, coordination with neighboring agencies such as the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and Anaheim PD may be necessary, as the river trail spans multiple jurisdictions. A unified approach could enhance safety and ensure consistent enforcement across the entire corridor.

What Can Be Done?

Community engagement must also play a role in improving safety. Encouraging trail users to report suspicious behavior, increasing lighting in high-traffic areas, and installing emergency call boxes near known trouble spots could make a meaningful difference.

Local advocacy groups, neighborhood associations, and city officials should come together to evaluate the situation and develop a comprehensive safety plan. This includes not only law enforcement measures but also outreach to at-risk youth and support for community-based interventions that address the root causes of violence.

Final Thoughts

The Santa Ana River Trail should be a place of connection, wellness, and community—not fear. While we acknowledge the challenges law enforcement faces in maintaining safety across a sprawling city, the recent shootings demand a stronger, more visible response.

Residents deserve to walk, bike, and commute safely. City leaders and police officials must act swiftly to ensure that the trail remains a source of pride and enjoyment, not anxiety and danger.

It’s time for action—for accountability, for awareness, and above all, for safety.

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Call to Action:
We encourage all concerned residents to attend the next Santa Ana City Council meeting and voice their concerns. We also urge the SAPD to issue a public statement outlining their plans for enhancing safety on the Santa Ana River Trail.