Disturbing messages have been discovered on Google Earth and have sparked speculation and concern online. The images show multiple “HELP” messages spelled out using various materials at a Los Angeles property. The pictures quickly went viral as users began sharing and investigating the discovery. Located one mile east of City Hall, the site has become the focal point of widespread online forum.
What made viewers particularly worried were the additional messages seen alongside the primary “HELP” signs – Spanish words including “TRAFFICO” and “TERRORISMO,” as well as “LAPD,” “FEDERAL,” and “FBI” spelled all over the property. The message’s proximity to a shipping yard and the Union Pacific Railroad initially led to speculation about criminal activities.
The Investigation Unfolds
When the images were first seen, people quickly took to social media to voice their worries and suspicions. “This sounds like someone or a group are being trafficked and are using materials available to them to spell out an SOS,” wrote one Reddit user. Others noticed what looked like holes or tunnel entrances near the messages, creating further speculation about potential nefarious activities.
Local authorities were called, and an attempt was made by members of the FaZe Clan, a group of Los Angeles streamers, to try and see the site during a live broadcast. Their investigation quickly ended after being chased away by dogs, adding another layer to an already compelling story.
Union Pacific Railroad’s Response and Property History
Union Pacific Railroad, the property owner, quickly addressed the growing public concern. Their spokesperson explained: “Photos circulating on Google maps that show the word “HELP” on Union Pacific property were created about a year ago – no one was or is in danger”. The company also stated that although the messages were unauthorized, they were made by one person who had been trespassing on their property and other neighboring areas.
“We want to remind the public that it is illegal – and more importantly unsafe – to trespass on Union Pacific property,” the spokesperson emphasized, addressing both the immediate situation and broader safety concerns. The company then revealed a pattern of similar incidents across multiple properties in the area, suggesting a recurring issue rather than an isolated event.
Resolution and Community Response
Local residents were able to help shed light on the situation as well. A woman who lived near the lot identified the creator as a man named Jose, and explained that he had been writing these messages “for years“. The LAPD confirmed this and stated they’ve had “several different contacts with the individual” who has declined offers of housing and a mental health evaluation.
Google Street View also supports these claims, showing that the “HELP” message written on the sidewalk outside the lot was done at least two summers ago in July of 2023. While the immediate mystery appears to be solved, the conversation has now shifted to the ongoing mental health and community safety challenges in Los Angeles.
Looking Forward
As the city continues to recover from natural disasters, this side-quest mystery served as a reminder of how complex the intersection of mental health, public safety, and community truly is. While the “HELP” sign whodunnit may be solved, important discussions about community vigilance, mental health resources, and the role of social media continue to be had. The situation also demonstrates the importance of properly verifying facts before jumping to conclusions, something desperately needed in an area of misinformation.
