This is what the location used to look like.


Me and my buddies recently found an abandoned strip mall. We were all prepared to go inside, so we jumped the fence and found a POE. Before we entered, luckily, I decided that I wanted to scout the exterior of the entrance. As we were scouting, we heard whispers. It kinda spooked us, but we aren't very superstitious so we immediately assumed that we were near a squatter encampment. I shined my light through a hole where a door knob should have been, and I saw clothes lying around everywhere. This confirmed our conclusion to me, but for some reason one of my friends wasn't convinced. He still wanted to enter. Before he entered, we heard a shout so we ran off. What do you guys think that we should have done? Should we go back to explore, or should we just leave the place alone?(Sorry about the recent pictures not being right side up. I'm not sure how to fix it. I've tried rotating them on photoshop but it didn't work
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This was our POE, but there were lots to choose from.

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I think that this was supposed to be a dummy camera.

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I'd probably just leave the place alone, it doesn't really look interesting enough to warrant the risk.

Posted by MYSTERY-IS-IN-THE-AIR What do you guys think that we should have done?

"We're squatters too, it's okay. We brought a 6-pack for the deposit..."

As a local, I can tell you this isn't the greatest area in our county. Squatters have conquered several abandonments in this city. With that being said, you'll either run into the gang-banging type, druggies, or migrant workers just trying to get by. The latter are typically friendly, but the others can prove quite volatile.

Squatters aren't always a threat, but they're usually very protective. It's therefore important to exude confidence while completely respecting their location (treat it like it's their home). Before entering the building, announce who you are and state your purpose for being there. Ask if you can come in.

Honestly though, you probably made the right decision. I understand the draw of exploring a location others might overlook, but sometimes you're forced to weigh the risk v. the reward.

Plus some local explorers, myself included, have found meth lab remains out that way. And an active meth lab is the last thing you want to run into.

Be careful. You guys look young, which should never stop you from exploring, but you need to be cautious of folk who might target you out there. Especially in these types of neighborhoods. Always bring at least one friend, and consider telling someone on the outside where you're headed beforehand.

You could always send me to scout it out

Posted by Austtie As a local, I can tell you this isn't the greatest area in our county. Squatters have conquered several abandonments in this city. With that being said, you'll either run into the gang-banging type, druggies, or migrant workers just trying to get by. The latter are typically friendly, but the others can prove quite volatile. Squatters aren't always a threat, but they're usually very protective. It's therefore important to exude confidence while completely respecting their location (treat it like it's their home). Before entering the building, announce who you are and state your purpose for being there. Ask if you can come in. Honestly though, you probably made the right decision. I understand the draw of exploring a location others might overlook, but sometimes you're forced to weigh the risk v. the reward. Plus some local explorers, myself included, have found meth lab remains out that way. And an active meth lab is the last thing you want to run into. Be careful. You guys look young, which should never stop you from exploring, but you need to be cautious of folk who might target you out there. Especially in these types of neighborhoods. Always bring at least one friend, and consider telling someone on the outside where you're headed beforehand. You could always send me to scout it out

When we were looking for a POE, we were actually wondering if we should announce the fact that we were entering. I'm glad that I know that it is! Thanks for the helpful tips

I see that you're from Ventura County too! Have you ever been to this spot? If you have do you think it's worth the risk of entering?

Posted by MYSTERY-IS-IN-THE-AIR When we were looking for a POE, we were actually wondering if we should announce the fact that we were entering. I'm glad that I know that it is! Thanks for the helpful tips I see that you're from Ventura County too! Have you ever been to this spot?

No problem.

Although I'm familiar with the area, I've never noticed this specific location.

Do you think it's worth the risk of entering?

It's all circumstantial. I've been to squatter havens at just precisely the right time, whereas no one was "home". I'm sure your squatters aren't there 24/7. Even so, if you return and you think someone's inside, just be respectful but cautious.

Actually, there's a location I've been meaning to scout out near this mall. I'd greatly appreciate it if you'd check it out for me. I'll PM you about other Ventura county locations as well.

Just incase anybody was wondering, this location is either going to be demolished or renovated. I noticed construction workers in the area as well as equipment and construction vehicles. If you know where this place is, then I suggest that you go sooner rather then later. If you don't know where this place is, then send me a message for location details.

Malls Strips are great places to explore ... and to be explored.
Wink.

Posted by DevilC *double post*

What are you implying xD

Oh and I forgot to mention that this location is in Ventura county.

I agree highly, this place does not look that cool! I would just go to more rural areas!

Posted by arsytee I'd probably just leave the place alone, it doesn't really look interesting enough to warrant the risk.

I have to agree that the location doesn't look that promising from the pictures...but you never know what you'll find until you get inside! If you're excited about the place, then go check it out!

If it's in an unsafe area, as someone said, I'd say go with a larger group. You probably made the right choice by leaving that day, but I'd say go back and try it again!

I just want to let everyone know that this place was demolished. The area was flattened to make way for new structures. Unfortunately, I never made my way inside.