Random stranger rang our doorbell tonight on 98th St.

[wlcg06]

Tonight around 9:30pm a young man rang our doorbell and asked if he could sleep on our couch! This has not happened to us before and it was quite surprising. We live on 98th near Arbor Heights. He said his name was Zack and was just kicked out of his house “up the street.” He said our house looked like we had extra room, and thought maybe we could take him in. He had some packed gym bags ready to move in too. Description is early 20’s, black curly hair, about 5’9” and wearing a baseball cap. Part of me wanted to invite him in and help him out, but then there are too many stories of tragedy when someone does that. So I said no, cant help you. Now, I feel really terrible that maybe he was truthful, so had to write this. Please, does anyone recognize the description of the young guy above? He may still be around (98th St near 41st).

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[the Bean]

Wlcg06 all these feelings you are feeling right now just shows you are a good person and that you have a heart of gold so don’t feel terrible, you did the right thing by turning him away…better to be safe than sorry.

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[dhg]

That’s an interesting “What Would You Do?” moment. Too many bad stories run through my mind. If I had allowed him in, I would not be able to sleep at all…

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[anonyme]

I just remembered an incident on the bus to Arbor Heights this past week. A young man fitting that description was riding the #22 with an older woman who is a regular rider. They were not sitting together, and he was ranting about being torn away from a certain living situation and forced to go with her. She was clearly in over her head, and he was obviously struggling with mental health/other issues – angry and lost. I felt bad for both of them; it appeared to be an impossible situation. I had a rare temptation as I got off the bus to lean over and tell him that I could feel how much pain he was in, and wish him well. In a way I wish I had, but feared it might make him angrier.

It may have been someone else entirely. Either way, I wouldn’t feel guilty about not letting him in. The potential for something going very wrong is pretty high, I’d say.

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[Sunuva]

I believe I may have seen this individual walking east on 100th yesterday afternoon. It stood out because it was raining pretty hard and he didn’t look dressed for it, and was also carrying things that didn’t look very waterproof either. Certainly didn’t look like someone who planned to be out walking in the rain.

Your story also reminded me of something that happened to me about 15 years ago. A domestic violence incident happened at a neighbor’s house and the victim ended up on my doorstep. I was just sitting playing a video game when I saw a woman run across my yard, up onto my porch and started banging on the door and screaming hysterically. It scared the crap out of me and my first thought was that it might be unsafe for me to open the door. When something unexpected like that happens, thoughts of self preservation are certainly understandable! However, when I cracked open the door, I could see the look of sheer terror on her face and knew 100% this person needed immediate help. I let her in, we called 911, and the cops were there quickly. It sounds like your situation was not 100% clear what was going on and you are completely right to want to protect yourself in that type of situation, IMO.

If this person continues to be around the area in a state of distress, maybe it’s a matter for the police to look into.

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[anonyme]

Update! I just spoke to Zack.

Was doing some yard work when a young man matching his description walked by. We exchanged pleasantries and on a hunch I asked if his name was Zack. He said yes, and we talked a while.

I told him he was being discussed in the WSB, and wondered if he was OK. He said he is staying with his grandparents temporarily after being kicked out of the house where he was staying. Apparently he has lived in Arbor Heights most of his life. He seems a very pleasant young man – well groomed, articulate, and friendly.

I did not probe into the nature or details of his present difficulties. Probably should have, as it would be easier to pinpoint his needs. I did suggest that he use the free internet services at the library to check this thread for ideas people might have about ideas for him. I would have hired him for some yard work, but I just don’t have the resources.

Zack, it was nice talking to you! I wish you luck in finding what you need.

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[wlcg06]

Thank you to everyone that responded. I hope Zack understands that having kids in the house, my protective father instincts kicked in and was nothing other than that. Zack, if you read this, I am glad you’re ok. And I know you will be ok. I have a son about your age that went through some tough times too. There are people that can help. We found resources (people) where you can meet with someone and they will listen to you. Often, that helps just to express yourself. Here are some numbers you can call 24/7:
(206) 461-3222.

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[anonyme]

Zack is back living on the streets of Arbor Heights.

I saw him the other morning, and he recognized me from our conversation several months ago. He is barred from returning to his grandmother’s house, for reasons unknown. He apparently saw an “empty” trailer somewhere, moved into it, and was subsequently arrested. His belongings are still locked inside. He claims to be starting a new job, and I suggested he make himself available for yard work. He says he’ll do anything.

It’s a strange situation. He’s a very bright, attractive, and personable young man who looks more like a teenager than someone in their mid-twenties. My concern is his profound lack of judgment, which may be a symptom of a more serious disconnect.

• This reply was modified 6 years, 10 months ago by anonyme.

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