Update: Deceased man discovered in an encampment in Shollenberger Park

Petaluma police identified the body that was found Monday in Shollenberger Park as Douglas Stewart Hall, 62, a transient who had settled into his camp for the night and apparently died in his sleep. It marks the eighth time in the last 12 months that a homeless person was found dead in or around Petaluma’s many homeless encampments.

Sonoma County is shifting how homeless services are delivered by focusing on the most vulnerable to prevent such deaths.

The body was first reported on Oct. 6, when another transient found Hall’s remains somewhat hidden in the tall grass. Based on the state of decomposition, police estimate that the body had been there for a few weeks.

There were no obvious signs of foul play, but an autopsy is planned to determine Hall’s cause of death.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police at 778-4372.