Investigation Launched After Footage Shows Man Spraying Unhoused Person With Hose in San Francisco

Police say an investigation has been launched after footage shared on social media showed a San Francisco man spraying an unhoused person with a hose.

In the footage, originally shared by the official Brioche Bakery and Café Twitter account, the man is seen spraying a water house at the individual, who is sitting on the ground. Per a report from KNTV, the man in the short clip is Foster Gwin Gallery owner Collier Gwin.

While initial reports said the unhoused individual seen being sprayed with a hose in the viral footage was a woman, San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott has since noted that the person identifies as a man.

In a statement shared Wednesday, Scott also said the incident is now in the hands of the department’s Investigations Bureau. Moving forward, evidence will be collected as the case is developed, all leading up to it potentially being passed to the District Attorney.

“I understand that there is frustration out there and there is an impulse to act,” Scott added. “Right now, what we need is civility. If you are frustrated with a situation, please do not act on your anger. Take a step back and call the police so we can help. That is why we are here.”

Gwin, meanwhile, spoke with ABC 7 and said he understands “what an awful thing” this was.

“But I also understand what an awful thing it is to leave [the person] on the street,” Gwin said. In a separate interview with KPIX, Gwin said he “can’t defend” his actions.

“I’m very, very sorry,” he said.