Strange and eerie messages spotted in an empty Los Angeles lot have set the internet on fire. Google Earth images show apparent cries for help, including words like “HELP,” “TRAFICO,” “FBI,” and “TERRORISMO.” The shocking discovery has left many wondering—what’s really going on?
A cryptic discovery
Users on social media started buzzing when they found the messages at coordinates 34°03’18″N 118°13’30″W. Captured in November 2023, the images show massive words spelled out using building materials in a vacant lot near the San Bernardino Freeway. Some feared the site could be connected to human trafficking.
California ranks eighth in human trafficking cases per capita, adding fuel to the concerns. However, the Los Angeles Police Department quickly stepped in to clear the air.
LAPD speaks out
The police assured the public that no criminal activity was taking place. “We’ve had several contacts with the individual responsible. He has refused housing or a mental health evaluation,” the LAPD Central Division posted on X. “There is no evidence of human trafficking. He has been at the location for years.”
Satellite images confirm that the cryptic messages have been there for over a year, with evidence dating back to June 2023.
Who is behind the messages?
A viral video fueled speculation. A local woman claimed a man named “Jose” was responsible for the messages. “He does it all the time,” she said. “He writes it everywhere… It’s been years.“
The woman did not reveal Jose’s reasons for creating the signs, leaving the mystery unsolved. Meanwhile, people are actively searching for Jose by speaking to other homeless individuals in the area.
A protest or something more?
A social media user with over 75,700 followers, weighed in on the situation. She believes construction in the area may be displacing residents and businesses.
“It may be a homeless man upset about losing his encampment,” she speculated. “Or maybe locals trying to scare away developers. Some even think it could be street art.”
Caruso pointed out that the sheer size of the materials used makes it unlikely that the messages are genuine distress calls. “It’s too obvious. Real victims wouldn’t want to attract that much attention,” she wrote. “This looks more like a protest.”
Mystery continues
Despite official statements, the eerie signs still intrigue online detectives. Is it a plea for help? A form of protest? Or an elaborate prank?
Until more is revealed, the mystery of LA’s bizarre ‘HELP’ messages remains unsolved!
