In an unexpected twist of events, body camera footage captures police officers confronting a woman living inside a sign above a Family Fare grocery store in Midland, Michigan.
Dubbed the “roof ninja” by locals, she had been living there for about a year.
The footage, which quickly went viral, shows the interaction between the woman and the police, shedding light on her unusual living arrangement.
The video begins with officers asking the woman to unlock the door to her makeshift home inside the sign.
They inform her that she must leave due to liability concerns raised by the store management.
Calmly, she explains that she was already preparing to move out within 24 hours.
The officers listen patiently, acknowledging her situation while emphasizing the urgency of her departure due to the liability issues.
The store manager’s primary concern is the potential liability of having someone living on the roof.
He has requested her immediate removal to avoid any unforeseen incidents.
The police assure the woman that they will help her gather her belongings and ensure they are protected.
This promise seems to ease her anxiety slightly, as she is particularly worried about leaving her possessions behind.
She voices her fears about the safety of her belongings, expressing a need to retrieve essentials like clothing, bedding, and vitamins.
The police reassure her that the store will secure her items and she will be able to collect them later.
This assurance is crucial to her, as her makeshift home includes several personal items and necessities that she cannot afford to lose.
The woman’s living space is surprisingly well-organized and equipped.
She had a desk, a houseplant, a computer printer, a Keurig coffee maker, and food storage.
Her ingenuity in creating a livable environment in such an unusual place is noteworthy.
She explains her aversion to direct sunlight, which influences her choice of clothing and her preference for shaded areas.
The officers assist her in gathering her essential items, preparing to escort her off the property.
They inform her that she will be trespassed from the property, meaning she must coordinate with the store to collect the rest of her belongings later.
Despite the oddity of the situation, the encounter remains calm and respectful, with both parties working towards a solution.
The woman shares insights into her background, revealing that she has experience living in cold climates, including Alaska.
Her knowledge of managing in harsh conditions speaks to her resilience and resourcefulness.
However, she remains concerned about the safety of her belongings and the possibility of them being stolen.
Despite the unusual circumstances, the situation is resolved amicably.
The police play a supportive role, assisting the woman in gathering her essentials and ensuring she can leave the property safely.
The interaction highlights the woman’s plight and the need for understanding and assistance rather than judgment.
The video has since amassed 2.3 million views in just a couple of weeks.
It has sparked a conversation about homelessness and unconventional living situations.
One viewer commented,
“She sounds like a smart person who is having difficulty paying for a roof over her head and found a safe place to live. She needs help.”
This sentiment resonates with many, emphasizing the importance of providing support and assistance to those in need.
The story of the “roof ninja” is a reminder of the broader issues faced by individuals struggling to find stable housing in today’s society.
Watch the video below to see the police footage for yourself!
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