Living 25 Years in a Train Tunnel - Man Shares His Amazing Story

[@ErikKSwanson]

Support my gofundme for a documentary about the Anchor-outs in San Francisco Bay www.gofundme.com/f/help-eriks-documentary-on-evictions-of-sf-boating-community

[@johnbuterbaughsr.933]

RIP Walter 🙏 ...well with his accolades it seems he could be called the Mole King and I mean that most respectfully.

[@SABY1561]

He was a veteran, not a mole​@@johnbuterbaughsr.933

[@SamSung-g8n]

@@ErikKSwanson can’t you open up the superchat like on the live function so people can donate here too? I’ve seen it on some channels this past short while

[@ErikKSwanson]

@ I think there is an option called super thanks. It should be enabled

[@SamSung-g8n]

@ I can’t see it on the iPad on your channel man🧐as I was gonna drop you the small donation as I liked your work☹️

[@chasjetty8729]

He kept the newspaper from the nineties with him and his brother. Kept it clean and safe and found it no problem. That’s really sweet.

[@Atheism-And-Normative-Ethics]

Dude has a computer and everything

[@budgetking2591]

@Jimmy from Philly oh stfu touch grass

[@lifewaycultivation]

@Jimmy from Philly dude, it was a piece of paper that’s lived underground for over 20 years. it’s legible and scannable-wtf did you expect? fresh off the press and a little glimmer on the corner like a cartoon? you SMUGLY tell the commenter to get glasses like a dick, when it’s you who needs to get some perspective.

[@Kosikon]

it truley was his most treasured possesion, a memory christmas dinner with his brother

[@HoloScope]

@Jimmy from Philly oh shut it bucko

[@bluize567]

Walter looked great for 60. He seemed genuinely happy where he lived so simply. He used his own ingenuity and didnt feel sorry for himself. RIP Walter

[@Leannot35]

This guy is a luv

[@yasharso]

Cause he smoked pot instead of all the crappy chemicals out there or alcohol.

[@JShawnPaul]

He said he is ALMOST 60

[@cameraop8210]

he looked like RD!

[@Red3bravo]

Poor guy you can see the pain in how much he misses his family

[@theisnoplanet]

bha

[@RK-ej1to]

spent more time talking about his electrical source then his daughter

[@PrinceMakaida]

@@RK-ej1to he's answering questions, just relax.

[@challenger516]

Nah you can see he's on drug.

[@evelynesimon5758]

@@RK-ej1to the documentary is about his house in the tunnel, not about his family life and the electrical source is extra-ordinary.

[@guymerritt4860]

Quite a unique guy, quite a character. I respect him for his ingenuity. It's great that you captured his story on video before he passed. Rest in peace Walter.

[@sydrose13]

RIP Walter

[@magfam9717]

clearly able bodied. yup just a lazy POS. living of my tax dollars

[@n017kingg7]

Yes he seemed like a very crafty and brilliant mind who lived humble, rest in paradise

[@debst.george4437]

R.I.P. Walter. I know your in a beautiful place now. 🫂💔😥

[@galewinds7696]

Why do you glorify bums? God didn't put man here to be a bum. Think about it 🤔

[@NimbusAdrift]

I was homeless for a few years, wandering around California, staying in places for a few months here and there, and I was lucky enough to be taken under the wing of a couple people like Walter. You can make true connections with real, good, intelligent people who just did the best they could with what they had and aren’t out of their minds on drugs or something. I met some amazing people.

[@술톤윤돼지탄핵]

Good for you! Take care and hope you're doing okay now.

[@deandrebanks314]

Same story for me in St. Louis

[@damienomen68]

It is only humanity. Nothing else. Easy to believe others do not share it. They do, death follows in some 'forsaken places.

[@sonyadavis6796]

He seems to have a cozy spot in a world that is crazy good for him.

[@Gravedigger933]

Was this recent? Cause they pay you now.

[@moddie6783]

Walter is now with his brother. What a resourceful, proud and friendly human being Walter seemed to have been. I pray his family gave him a decent farwell. RIP Walter.

[@twistoffate4791]

His family didn't even insist he live with one of them, it seems. Or perhaps they did and he didn't care for the set-up and/or conditions in that environment.

[@xJuiCYxxJaYx]

@@twistoffate4791 walter made up the rules. rule number 1 is dont follow the rules ppl put on you so you can live free

[@Tyrfingr]

He felt both warm, caring and definitely more genuine than a lot of people i meet who live in well off circumstances. In fact it seems to be a typical trait amongst people who are poor; to be that much more friendly, sociable and not stricken with the awful entitlement issues you run across.

[@RodneyFreeman]

It's sad that he passed away. I like the setup he made for himself in the tunnel. He seems like a guy who was just trying to make his way in the world like everyone else. I hope he rests in peace. He's earned it.

[@lukeyznaga7627]

I agree Rod. he was dealt a deck of cards in life, and embraced the situation AFTER he did wrong, and got his life right and set up "shop" in life and survived. He did the best he could with what he had and was a realist. He probably never imagined or dreamt of or tried to become famous or well off and get a real home above ground. Sometimes, life goes by and there is no turning back. E.G. Even with my new successful career, I know with the current culture I will never have a home of my own and will never be married and have kids. And I am no too old for that. Some things will never happen for me. I probably will never see Hawaii or the Grand Canyon, and thats okay. many people don't either, instead they see pictures or videos of the place, and that is enough for them.

[@Jyarako]

he didnt die?

[@bertsbug]

@@Jyarako he didn't?

[@mrnice4434]

@@Jyarako Read the description he past away 2012

[@danielblackred3698]

@@lukeyznaga7627 u wot m8 ?

[@jeffdurall8353]

I was a television cameraman for about 15 years and I absolutely LOVE how you let Walter talk and didn't interrupt him. Fantastic job getting Walters "Story" on video. Job well done, good sir.

[@ErikKSwanson]

Thanks, I appreciate it. Glad you enjoyed it

[@rehab4everybody]

yeah, he really made it more than good

[@RayRay-cn8rg]

I was thinking the Same thing about how he let him talk. Without interrupting Him.

[@Stovetopcookie]

It’s a lost art these days.

[@based8223]

Bot account

[@kosfireandbushcraft]

this was a great documentary. walter seemed like a nice guy, hadn't been overwhelmed by the streets.

[@SuperiorDave]

I spent 5 years on the streets in areas of Arkansas. I found it easier to stay high than it was to find food most days. It's crazy that people were more likely to share drugs with me than food. I eventually got sober in a jail cell, I got free, and I met a woman who motivated me and loves me, and she changed my life. I'll love her and i owe the rest of my life to her.

[@SuperiorDave]

Got clean October 10, 2021

[@andybecker2693]

I got clean after being in a methadone program for 14 years on Dec. 2 2021. The clinic told me that I would end up in a Hospital. I quit the clinic at an 85 mg, dose and never looked back. It was hell because I worked 5 days a week but after about a month I started to feel better. It was a very long month to say the least but I wasn’t going to crawl back to that clinic.

[@GuillermoBanda-e4h]

Solo el que se resbala y se vuelve a parar sobrevive y le da centido a su vida y felicidades por la persona que te sostuvo tu ser vendiciones

[@Anonemousehouse]

⁠@@andybecker2693wow. I heard from many how rough methadone is to quit, you should congratulate yourself every day; simply existing is proof people need; an example it’s possible. Have a. Wonderful day

[@mamaboocee]

​@@andybecker2693wow, congrats to you. Methadone is harder to kick than heroin! You are a hero, for going cold turkey and for turning your life around. Methadone saves a lot of people but it is also the same kind of monkey on their backs in so many ways. Methodone clinics used to be terrible places, they have come a long way but I am sure it's better to not depend on anything that could end up making your life miserable especially when you are trying to do right! Good for you!

[@brentmast8473]

I was on the street at 16 and homeless (1991). I remember the first time I was caught cleaning up in an office building. I felt immediately ashamed. Later, that same day, he tipped me $10 as I served him lunch at the cafe I worked at. Point is, that tip told me I could be more than a homeless high-school dropout. These days, I'm a retired Army Sergeant Major. Amazing what a little bit of kindness can do to turn your life around. Be blessed everyone and be kind.

[@saint333s]

Best comment ever! 💖🫂 Love one another is everyone's purpose.❤🎉

[@marcusgregoryrichardson22]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😊

[@jimmyconner2444]

Great story! Thank you for your service brother

[@Anonemousehouse]

If you dont mind me asking how were you homeless at 16; and im assuming at 8 you enrolled which got you off the street? Thanks for sharing either way!

[@Vagabond_Etranger]

@@Anonemousehouse Plenty of ways. Parents died in a car crash, drug addict parents in jail/prison. No relatives or relatives that DON'T want to take him in. CPS isn't any better. You just bounce from place to place. The ppl just adopting you & using you as a cash cow. I have only heard 2 good stories about CPS. 99.99% of the time it's about the same as abusive parents. I was homeless for 2 days, due to my dad. When I came home, I just told everyone that I was staying at a friend's house. This was in the 80's when I was a teen.

[@strawman1985]

He seemed like a really cool guy, thanks for sharing him with us.

[@paraguaymike5159]

RIP. He scratched out a place for himself in this world, and survived for years living a minimalist lifestyle.

[@Gotnoemailsucka]

He did well for a homeless guy.

[@lisadolan689]

Mental freedom is a priceless gift.

[@bmo14lax]

Gotta be happy with where you are and what you have. I'm trying to find pleasure in the small simple things. As long as you're not hurting anyone ofc

[@Willesden_Rab1_TV]

@@bmo14lax i agree with you as long as youre not hurting anyone , but the authorities dont care about that , if this man is using free electricity he will be on their " things to do list "

[@twotwentyswift]

Well, since he died after the video was made that won't be an issue. 😉@@Willesden_Rab1_TV

[@SirManfly]

@@Willesden_Rab1_TV I was wondering if he was still alive but I guess not. Just didn't realize it was way back in 2012 that he passed !!

[@Willesden_Rab1_TV]

@@SirManfly thats a real shame 🙏 thanks for the update

[@desperatedave3573]

this was a special kind of documentary..im actually crying as its ended RIP WALTER!

[@PANZERFAUST90]

sissy

[@heyhunniesbrookehere346]

You never know why someone is homeless. I knew a guy that had everything in the world. A wife and kids, good money, good job. Horrible accident took his whole family. He left everything and went and lived in a tent by the highway. He didn't have to be homeless but I guess no where felt like home without his family. Don't judge people based off their living situation, you never know why they are there to begin with

[@eternalbeing3339]

Well said. Anyones house could burn down, lose their job, family tragedy. Then they would be just like this guy. Thats why you always have a plan b in life. Never bite off more than you can chew.

[@therespectedlex9794]

You should be careful with all that trust, and don't ever judge stuff. Dude like you could get bush whacked before you know it.

[@NonEuclideanTacoCannon]

I'm often homeless because working 60 hours a week no longer covers rent. Sometimes I luck out and find something I can afford, it never lasts longer than a few years, then I'm camping again. It's actually slightly less stressful when I'm not having to pay rent, because then I don't have to choose between starving or shoplifting.

[@LifeisEnergy2]

Well said brother ✌🏽✌🏽

[@therespectedlex9794]

I guess you're probably drug addict, and or a gambler.

[@stevengallant6363]

Walter was very proud of his home. Rest in peace Walt

[@paulwall5851]

He's dead?

[@stevengallant6363]

@@paulwall5851 yes. I forget when. Go through the comments section. That's where I found it

[@kordelas2514]

@@paulwall5851 Just watch a conclusion section of this video.

[@malikawan458]

@@paulwall5851 Yes, passed away in 2012. It's in description.

[@lexopims3660]

@@malikawan458 soo, hes been there for 32 years?

[@robbiewright9573]

RIP Brother Walter. You can see the intelligence radiating behind his eyes. Good man he was❤🎉

[@kennethvenezia4400]

I have a lot of respect for this guy. Some people probably look down on him, but if society ever collapsed, this is the kind of guy that would survive. Hats off to you my brother 😮

[@eustacemcgoodboy9702]

He literally stole electricity and lived off the excess of America's richest city, one of the richest cities in the world. He'd be dead in a week in any small town in America. There's a reason the homeless all go to the biggest cities.

[@gentilewarrior]

That's right, he's basically leeching off civilization. He wouldn't be able to survive in the woods as a hunter gather without electricity where he has to hunt and fish for his food.

[@beetledune9264]

Rich people stole everyday from poor...what say u GOODBOY? I hope u homeless someday. >@

[@ScratchyBaws]

@@eustacemcgoodboy9702 I was homeless 3yrs and i stayed out of big cities. You know absolute shite on the matter.

[@eustacemcgoodboy9702]

@@ScratchyBaws I know America sucks and is basically unlivable, and that I left the USA forever over 10 years ago. I know life is better basically anywhere in Europe. I left because I don't want my kids to end up like you did.

[@nicholasdefranzo6962]

This dude is such an amazing soul. Doesn’t want a thing handed to him he still has a good relationship with family. Loves Motörhead. R.I.P. Walt.

[@morphingfaces]

Housing and food and healthcare aren't hand outs they are necessities commodifying human needs and putting a paywall on basic essentials guarantees people fall through the cracks

[@WhoTouchedMyReindeer]

Well, except free board and electricity and medicare.

[@SABY1561]

I miss my Dad, thank God me and his grandchildren got to spend 2 yrs with him before his passing, tragic accident, Rip. ❤

[@JDS9309]

​@@SABY1561 Was your dad Walt?

[@bonusflaps1749]

What’s amazing about him? A homeless guy stealing electricity who lives in squalor. And if you think he has a good relationship with family, you weren’t paying attention to the video. The guy had more to say about going to a concert with his brother than anything about his own offspring

[@Buddyguy1988]

Wonderful job interviewing you could feel how you truly listened to him. And humanized him

[@juggalo4life247mfrs]

I was on the streets for a couple years,and I like videos documenting the struggles of the homeless community.they're not all bad people,and this documentary shows that!thanks for giving Walter a chance to tell his story!

[@X737_]

How did you get back on your feet brother?

[@JamesBrown-tb2yn]

I hear that. I've been homeless before too living in the streets.. abandoned building... Am blessed times have changed

[@stonewal316]

You an ICP fan and homeless?? Nah I don’t believe that?? 😂

[@beats5701]

​@@stonewal316 huh

[@videogameguy101]

Most of them AREN’T bad people. They’ve been dealing with a lot of bullshit their entire lives, different from what most people deal with, have been abused by family, “friends”, bosses and coworkers, and deal with multiple mental illnesses. How can a person who doesn’t bother anyone be a “bad person”? They’re just sitting there. You need to change your view on these people because, for one thing, they have a lot in common with you, for the second thing, they’ve dealt with things you maybe would have offed yourself over a long time ago, and finally, they mind their own business. Don’t EVER look at someone minding their own business and train your brain to dislike them. That’s literally disliking people for for reason and the same type of shit that get loner kids in school minding their own business bullied and looked at weird and ostracized to the point where they hate everyone in school, later hate everyone in life, and end up like these people of they don’t shoot up their school first.

[@viylangager4020]

"I'm pretty well off. You won't find many down here who have as much as I do." WOW! That is truly a hard hitting statement. I was on the streets for over 15 years. I raised my son on the streets. The statement he made is, sadly, quite true. In the world of street life, he does have a mansion. He is someone I would have enjoyed knowing.

[@wa1ufo]

I would have liked knowing him too. He was a good person with a kindness many humans do not possess.

[@gsssprocket]

WOW!!! i , too am amazed at his level of gratitude and his truth , in what he knew he had, his castle, he had peaceand satisfaction

[@brendancampbell4434]

Would you have warmed his bed and give him a tongue bath?

[@arostwocents]

My partner and I had a doorless garage that was out of the way, I built a wooden wall as a windbreak and we had a sofa bed and super thick duvet for warmth in the winter. It was great and so, so much better than what other people on the streets had.

[@arostwocents]

​@@wa1ufopeople who are not greedy are some of the nicest you'll find. It's not rich people who helped me when I was homeless, it was the poor and often non whites and non British

[@korndizl9749]

RIP walter, im glad he had a place where he felt at home so many years.

[@neilstokescvwshrewsbury7939]

What a humble man . RIP Walter

[@TherealestJedi]

I don't know why but watching this interview made me emotional. Walter seemed like a really cool guy, well collected in thoughts. I just pictured what he could have been through and seen and the heartache after losing his brother. I know now he is reunited with his brother.

[@alexo1226]

Great interview!! I'm glad you let Walter just talk and open up and feel comfortable doing this interview. Thank you, Sir.. R.i.p Walter .

[@X0verXDriveX]

I have an uncle that lives on the streets. I'm 38 now and he's been living on the streets since I was 2. I didn't have memories of him but my mother would talk to me about him from time to time. His childhood wasn't easy. He had epilepsy and probably a couple of undiagnosed disorders. My mother went into a Tim Hortons one day and saw him. They saw each other a couple of other times and one day he dissapeared again. I at least got to meet him. Even if I didn't have memories of him, I just knew he was family. I remember, right before I left, I gave him a hug and I didn't want to let go. I cried a lot and it made him cry but at some point I had to let him go. Like a bird, you can't keep him in a cage, he wouldn't be happy. I think about him everytime it's cold outside and I hope he's alright.

[@777jones]

People like that are just like a bird, they want to be free. It might be different, but we don’t need to regret.

[@mortgageapprovals8933]

@@777jones sounds like a shit head. what kind of asshole abandons his family.

[@wildphil64]

My mother had a brother that she saw at a motorway service station back in the 1960’s. She said to my dad “that’s our Willie” she approached him and it was indeed him. She gave him her address but he went back underground and she never saw him again until he was dying in hospital (how they got in touch, I’m afraid I don’t know) and my younger brother Sean went with her. Upon seeing Sean, he greeted him by calling him Peter (my dad’s name) and mum corrected him saying Sean is my son. Apparently, the shock on his face when he realised the amount of time that had passed said everything. It’s very sad, but as it’s been said, it’s the free bird thing that’s deeply rooted in some of us that just happens to prevail over everything else. Someone else might be able to explain it, I can’t 🤷‍♂️

[@TheJoker-302]

I hope uncle is ok🙏

[@cameronkynard1282]

Man this was so dope to see. I wonder how many other Walters are out there. Rest In Peace Walter. He forever lives through this video now

[@peterbetts858]

Many .

[@Darkest_Soul_187]

You should watch Soft White Underbelly

[@rehab4everybody]

@@Darkest_Soul_187 What is that?

[@Darkest_Soul_187]

just search it..@@rehab4everybody

[@Justexposingevil]

​@@rehab4everybody it's a youtube channel. Good one too!

[@ScratchyBaws]

Wow he made a nice home for himself there. I lived rough for 3yrs, you adapt to your surroundings like Walter did here. R.I.P young man.

[@timgregory2509]

As an individual and former homeless guy I can totally identify with Walters story. Thanks for caring and sharing. God bless!

[@coreybabcock2023]

same here been homeless all over the country

[@rpm2085]

Same for me as well. Used sleep further up on a section of Amtrak near the GWB. Did a lot of things there. Unfortunately.

[@donna192]

He's ample nor homless

[@donna192]

Dummm phone i meant he's not homeless he's a mole

[@kenegan7649]

I've been living on my boat on Sydney harbour for over 15 years..and can really relate to this story...like keeping a low profile and sticking to myself...even though the marine authorities know I'm here they leave me alone..

[@michellehitt1976]

Wow that's interesting. Has it been difficult?

[@shable1436]

Ken your living the life, bro I've been homeless and drifted city to city but luckily I'm a musician and got good at my craft, so I never was hardcore hurting because I somehow ended up with money from bands, and busking, got to travel, even your with famous bands, I thank God for my talent, and I know it could have been different, as I seen so many struggling just to eat, I saw ppl who wouldn't poop just because they wanted to keep as much in their system as long as they could, I know it sounds wild but it's truth. You know when ppl are starving it's on their own in America, there's so much wasted stuff here, it's just when your poor and destitute is when you learn the INS and out of how to survive without anything, there's soup kitchens, and bread lines in every little town here, it's a matter of stuffing your ego pride, and going down and eating meals and donating time when you learn what's real, and most are mentally ill ppl that have no choice, that's when you pull up your panties and start helping others because you know you're capable of things

[@hayorge27]

Live in the US and was homeless recently for almost 2 years. If you respect the cops, they will respect you back. Period. Yea there's aholes in any profession, but vast majority of the cops I've dealt with are not aholes and genuinely want to help if you treat them like a human being too

[@hayorge27]

@@shable1436 you are so right. Only when we help others can we truly help ourselves

[@Dandontlie]

Living in the boat is different

[@PaulVickers-n6k]

Just watched this and really enjoyed it, saying hi from UK.. Would be nice if the firm laid a plaque for him, think that be a nice tribute to a remarkable guy.

[@debrakish9659]

What an intelligent gentle soul he was. So sad to hear he's gone. Much respect to him and all those who found themselves in similar circumstances and somehow made lives for themselves.

[@theblackmoth1111]

The roses in the concrete

[@hatita73]

Very impressive...!! So sad to read he passed away quite some time ago, this unique person...R.I.P. Walter!

[@butter7734]

He died! God dammit.

[@butter7734]

Commented halfway through. Lol

[@fiwalker6690]

Oh 😢

[@celticwarrior777]

Aw did he when

[@amandachrome9310]

Oh my

[@kana6659]

Dude thanks to you you’ve made him immortal

[@kat-75]

Only Jesus Christ can make someone immortal.

[@grimtuesday9]

@@kat-75only deez nuts will make your mouth immortal screw off with your sky wizard propaganda

[@theblakes3878]

@@kat-75I’m sure it was a figure of speech

[@HulkHoganstights]

Freak

[@dryer1901]

@@kat-75hell yeah brother

[@misterslats]

In a million years I would not have expected this guy to say he went out to the Roseland Ballroom to see Motorhead. I wish Lemmy could have seen this. Walter would be on the guest list for life in NYC.

[@sourogz]

Lemmy WAS HIS FAV USE TO WATCH HIM WITH MY GRANDPA HE WOUILD HAVE LOVED THAT

[@chainreaction8977]

It's nice that Walter's memory will live on via this documentary.

[@juggalo4life247]

This is my second time watching this video.I was homeless for 2 yrs,and still spend 2 days a week stealth camping in a state park.I love my apartment,but it's still nice to get away from everybody and everything that's negative in this world!!!

[@Mynyel]

Teared up after hearing about this. Sorry for loss of this wonderful human. Much respect for him and others like him that follow their own path.

[@NicCageForPresident2024]

This makes me think of my dad he was a Vietnam veteran and one of the reasons I went into the army. I remember when my mom left him back in the late eighties early nineties somewhere around there. At one point you lived in a tent down at the state park on Puget Sound and then he got a storage unit up by the Sea-Tac Airport he would sneak in at night he built a loft with a bed of above and a little area down below with a desk or he could hang out and plays guitar and he lived kind of like this. No matter how much people would talk crap about my dad I always loved him more than anything in the world and he was a hero to me. I always thought I would rather live happy like him instead of have a bunch of money and be miserable he would be the happiest and have the most friends was nothing wow people with money and cars or miserable and people hated them

[@MindfulBodybuilding]

RIP! SeaTac that’s in WA great place

[@vancemacd6315]

Hell of a story, what a man. Great work documenting this legend.

[@STFP88]

Seeing this really makes me humble myself going through my depression! May Walter Rest in Paradise!

[@mariekatherine5238]

I remember going with my roommate to a subterranean colony underneath Grand Central Station in search of a mutual acquaintance who’d run away from Creedmore and was several days without her insulin. She’d left it in our apartment having come in via the fire escape. My roommate had worked with her when she was at a rehab, but she’d relapsed, and got picked up by the cops when she was seen walking around Shea Stadium at night, butt naked. It was late, like 11:30 pm and she called us to ask for her insulin. My roommate had been to this underground place twice. She was supposed to meet us upstairs, but wasn’t there, so my roommate was set upon finding her. I wasn’t going to let her go alone, nor did I want to stay alone upstairs. This was in 1989 and NYC was a very different place back then. So we found the place. It was crazy, surreal. People had set up tents, partitions, had furniture, TVs, pets…there were a lot of cats. One guy had built an actual tiny house from pieces of wood, metal, aluminum sheeting. He had a folding cot, table, chair, TV, lights, a rug, and apparently, there was a room with leaky steam pipes where people could bathe and get fresh water. There was a couple with a baby, which was shocking to me, and even some school age kids, but we didn’t see them, presumably because they were asleep since it was a school night. We had to bring a bag full of stuff to barter our way in. We did find the woman and gave her the insulin. She’d obviously started using again. A lot of the people looked fairly normal. They’d not stand out in a crowd as drug addicts or homeless, but a few of them were pretty creepy. There was a man who served as the manager or mayor of sorts, and there were some rules, like no stealing from other residents, no getting high or drunk when in residence, and it’s anyone really smelled you could be forced to the washing room. Oh, and no open defecation or leaving your waste around. You had to go somewhere else with it and any trash to dump it. Anyone who started a physical altercation or raped someone could be made to leave. What you did upstairs was your business, but you couldn’t do it in the colony. It was one of the scariest and most fascinating of places I’ve seen in my life.

[@michellehitt1976]

Wow that's sounds cool and partly creepy. Did yall ever go back down there.

[@shable1436]

That's wild, have you heard of the place in Europe like that? It's not underground but an actual mini town that the authorities didn't mess with, but I'm not sure if it was owned by someone or just a jurisdiction that was off limits, anyways it was like kids was raised there, and was like a hippie colony and had its own rules just like your saying, there's a documentary about it on KZbin I just can't remember the name, hell I'm not even sure if it's in Europe 😂

[@mariekatherine5238]

@@shable1436 Interesting! The NYPD and MTA have pretty much eliminated the subway tunnel dwellings, so the only ones down there now are transients, although who knows what’s happened during the pandemic. There are still lots of homeless living in the trains themselves and in the stations and platforms. This isn’t organized and they tend to be the really bad off, drug addicts, mentally unwell, etc. There’s no mistaking them for everyday people. Right before Christmas I got on the R train to Queens, about 10:30 pm, not the safest, but fastest way to get from Manhattan to my sister’s place in Jackson Heights. Buses are too slow and taxi is too expensive. Like back in the ‘80s, the station and platform areas were kind of deserted. The train pulled in and I got in a car with maybe a half dozen passengers. Don’t you know it, the very first stop a likely homeless guy came in and plopped himself and his bags directly across from me. He reeked of alcohol and unwashed body. I didn’t want to be rude and move immediately, so I decided to endure it another stop into Queens Plaza and quick switch into another car. Just my luck the train stopped in the tunnel for an unknown reason--not unusual, so he decided to use the motionless delay to drop his jeans, squat and take a dump in the aisle, right in front of me. He seemed quite oblivious to my presence, so I fled at once to the rear of the car, as far away as possible near the doors, just like everyone else! Some guy began cursing him out and wanted to smear him in his own shite, but the fellow he was with, I assume his partner because they’d been smooching on each other when I first boarded, thankfully restrained him from taking rash action. The started up again, and as soon as we stopped in Queens Plaza, everyone departed the car, leaving it to the shitter. I decided to go upstairs to the N train and walk the shorter route to my sister’s place. Fortunately, the N train car contained nobody offensive to humanity! As for Europe, might the underground village be located in Romania? I’ve never been there, but I think there was something about the police trying, unsuccessfully, to shut it down. I have seen people who looked to be poorly in the underground in London, but whether they had a community, I sort of doubt it. There is another place in the California desert, USA, called Slab City. It’s an impromptu aging hippies commune of sorts where people come and go as they please, the only rules being not to bother anyone else. In the winter, hippie types from colder climates park RVs, pitch tents, etc., do odd jobs in town or work online in the town library. Then there are permanent residents who live in homemade dwellings. It’s an eclectic collection of folks who, for various reasons, don’t quite fit in to typical society. If I ever get the chance, which is doubtful, I’d visit the place. But I don’t think I’d like the climate. I’m a winter-lover, lots of bone-dry cold and feet of powdery snow are what I like, so long as I have the right clothes and some sort of heating, preferably, a wood stove or enclosed fire! Where I live now comes pretty close. On Christmas Eve the temp. fell to -12 F. (which is about -25 C.).

[@captainwhackencracker4589]

@@shable1436 Christiania in Copenhagen, Denmark?

[@davejohnson3474]

@@shable1436 paris catacombs?

[@slyonme]

These individuals truly inspire me with their remarkable ability to survive. Many people today live in sheltered environments, and if faced with homelessness, they might struggle to adapt. Learning from those who navigate such challenges can help us appreciate the skills needed to thrive..they deserve Respect

[@Raging-Wolfy]

Im glad this much information of him and about him was released after he lived his life the way he wanted. Much respect to the channel of keeping his location a secret all this time. He will be dearly missed by everyone touched by this story. He was able to live his life the way he wanted and honestly in the end thats all we can ever hope for. Rest in Peace Walter. You’ve earned it.

[@knifesee1972]

This should be made in to a film with Brad Pitt as main character. ❤️

[@Madame_Butterfly_13]

@@knifesee1972 Brad Pitt isn’t a man of colour.

[@cmnyc4286]

Completely agree with keeping it secret. I live in Manhattan and countless tourists have asked me how to find the Mole people over the years. Never told any of them the location. Guys like Walter lived a hard life and deserve to be left alone.

[@ivannovotny4552]

Raging: Beautifully said and thanks.

[@raregoodds3143]

He was a drunk

[@nikpr2174]

rest in peace Walter. I hope that humanity one day will understand that you dont need to have luxurious things to be happy but to just be able to live with the basic home comforts.

[@StuartWhelan-up8vs]

Absolutely right❤

[@Optic_zen]

That man is absolutely depressed

[@nicoledickerson9516]

You could ditch all your things and job and live like that also 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@SiArks1]

I was living out of my Ford taurus about half a yr, then started in NJ and ended on these NYC streets..thru hardwork/positive energy I found my way..shit is rough out there..the fact this guy lasted 25 yrs is quite the feat..rest easy now u can finally let ur guard down.

[@basillah7650]

Not really letting his guard down got hit by train the danger for anyone living in train tunnels

[@rpm2085]

Didn't know Walter personally, but passed by him several times. Just a short greeting as I spent a lot of time under the tunnel further up and abusing substances, drinking and the whole 9 yards. Thank God I don't live like that anymore. I didn't know Walter passed.

[@ErikKSwanson]

Thanks for sharing. Glad to hear you got out

[@hanskazan7403]

@@ErikKSwanson how did he died?

[@Hamdad]

Glad you climbed out of that deep, dark, hole. Most never make it out, and it's their final resting place, like my sister.

[@noahsabin7386]

Congrats for a new lease on life.

[@simonpenum]

Happy you made it out of that life bro. Respect

[@RealNoface]

Sounds like a great guy and a Bro i would no question hang out with... I've met countless homeless people here (Vancouver, Canada) helped them with food on taco tuesday and always love to chat with everyone. Glad i got to see Walter and this video, thanks buddy! 😇

[@AJ-jk3bo]

Thank you so much for sharing this man's story. I'm glad I got to "meet" Walter through your interview with him. Some people just need to live their own way.

[@MakoRuu]

Rest in Peace Walter. He's free now. No more health issues, no more hunger, no more cold nights.

[@MrUnder30seconds]

no more lonely nights

[@earnold1896]

He probably did ok for food.

[@MakoRuu]

@@earnold1896 Not as well as you or I.

[@friedrichjunzt]

No more shitty society that doesnt even bother to provide universal healthcare or dignity for those in need. Only thoughts and prayers bc those dont cost anything.

[@user-nk5uc9fy8w]

@@MrUnder30seconds he used to bang bag ladies on the reg

[@tinajames4262]

Absolutely love this guy, I would love to have met him. So honest , carefree and good humour. I am gutted that he has passed away.😢

[@VIRGONOMICS]

I lived in the 7th Street Squat back in ‘95-‘96 Was playing in a signed band, using heroin . Clean now . Pete Missing ( Missing Foundation ) was the first person I met there . Who knows what happened to all those people . This takes me back to NYC . This guy is a true Urban Warrior .

[@salc8724]

Such a humble man, we really do take advantage for what we have. RIP Walter.

[@briannadickson2884]

*take for granted Love to you.

[@deborahcurtis1385]

He was the definition of a street-smart, live-and-let-live, survivor. While he also was resourceful and he took care to not share his resources (like his electricity source), it was because he knew the consequences. If you keep under the radar and don't abuse it, then you won't be detected. But you tell one person they tell another person and pretty soon there's a community under there drawing on the power and drawing attention to themselves. Because things go in cycles. Communities of itinerant people can start well but it's only as strong as the most weak link. It only takes a few people to be exploitive or drug affected and the whole dynamic changes. So this is the price of this form of survival, to isolate and stay isolated. It's a life but it's only a half-life. And things go in cycles. In one way I didn't understand why he didn't very gradually clean up the area, over 30 years taking some rubbish out each day it would have transformed the area. The way he spoke matter of factly about people dying there, again shows his survival mentality. To him it was no big deal because he had to think that way. He understood how to survive and one thing he does is not dwell on negatives. Or you go down.

[@Non-Doctors-Music]

An awesome piece of reporting of a lovely, open, and fascinating human being.

[@robertclarkguitar]

This is what makes this KZbin thing worth while. Thank you for uploading. I would be with him if it weren't for my daughter. I was a single father. Raised my 2 alone. After losing everything in Katrina. My fear has always been homelessness. I've always shared a little when I could to those on corners and etc. I didn't care if it was for beer or drugs or gas, food or etc. They were in need at the mercy of others empathy. For better or worse I felt for them. After my first home lost in Katrina , my second marriage I lost that home too. I got tired of working so hard for nothing to show for it. But my kids were all that mattered and I pressed on. I lived the last 10 years with my kids in apmt. They grew up and graduated and moved on to their own families. I moved out after losing a job of 10 years over health issues. I've been in a camper 2 or 3 years and now at my daughter's. I babysit my grankid. So I am fortunate.

[@chuckyoneill9029]

I came back after a year thanks for documenting Walters story linked and subscribed and shared

[@TwinSister1957]

Nothing sad about his passing. He lived his life HIS WAY....something many, many people only dream of. Greetings Walter from the Oregon Coast

[@kylesalmon31]

I’m from Oregon as well. Many many visits to the coast.

[@liamg1706]

Many people dream of living in a tunnel. Okay

[@CharLeeHustle]

@@liamg1706I think the message was. He lived his life his way. He didn’t have to form his life around the societal values everyone else did.

[@liamg1706]

@@CharLeeHustle I'd agree with the comment below . A very sad existence. A would really doubt that was his first choice or his dream. Poor guy must have had it very tough and got sick of the world above

[@gxlorp]

@@liamg1706 there are guilty people. Or well off people with a shit load of money, who feel dull meaninglessness. They say these delusional things about this guy, out of their own psychological short comings

[@sandlmv8301]

Soon as he whipped out the newspaper I could tell he missed his brother. Carries alot of pain.

[@steveeymann6374]

I gotta respect this guy. He lives outside the system without expecting the system to support him. I wish the best for him. If he is happy with his life, I'm happy for him. Rest in peace brother! You lived life free, the right way, without expecting handouts from the rest of us. You will be missed good sir. Please let God know I'm doing my best. I'll meet you in heaven friend.

[@Jimberlin]

He seems like a genuinely good dude. Im sure hes seen a lot in his time. RIP Walter

[@mustachedmalarkey8838]

Walter reminds me so much of my late father, he passed in 2010 and was a sweet and gentle man who loved to talk and share stories.

[@dennisrodriguez3670]

He’s homeless and still is grateful.

[@tina-klang-vergewaltigerin7414]

Hello, I'm 41. I'm from Germany. I was homeless myself for a few months. I've also seen the other documentary (part 1). I'm shocked that Walter is dead. He certainly had his flaws but he was a good person. God has now given him peace in a more beautiful place. Greetings from Germany.

[@100comentarios.5]

🤝 From 🇵🇹

[@gowdsake7103]

GOD is your fantasy

[@tina-klang-vergewaltigerin7414]

@@gowdsake7103 It doesn't matter if God or any energy is just fantasy. He's in a better place, that's all that matters. He deserves it. Despite his smile, he had sorrow on his face. I know quite a few people like that. And many are already dead!

[@tina-klang-vergewaltigerin7414]

@@David-Kynaston What are they attacking me for? What I wrote was meant very kindly. And they don't even know if I believe it or not! You don't know anything!!!

[@tina-klang-vergewaltigerin7414]

@@patmartin2730 No ! I think he deserves a better place now. And not that it's better that he's dead.

[@mikeflight9]

This guy is a survivor. It makes me feel very humble. 👌👍

[@paulthrutner9114]

Well he’s dead now, so not really

[@d3ro876]

@@paulthrutner9114 lol u stop it

[@peezy4178]

@paul thrutner youre so edgy and radical dude. So cool

[@ma.melinegarcia5639]

We all need a friend like this guy..We should all be humble..I'm from Canada I would love to visit him..Walter should write a book

[@sythmc8600]

What a story. Nothing but respect for Walter. He asked for nothing and made his way. He's proof that a home is what you make it. Walter would have loved how you portrayed him! You are a caring man.

[@gordonsmith5819]

I’m 25 years old and I feel like my life has been a rollercoaster, this man has lived on the streets the same time I’ve been alive, it really puts things into perspective

[@SmithWesson-purgeChomos]

It’s a nice home

[@plutoplatters]

25 !! You aren't even born yet !! Enjoy... lucky you

[@earnold1896]

25 years goes by fast. It's a wonder he wasn't electrocuted or others down there.

[@JOSH2625]

exactly, you must also go into the streets

[@Karmaisabliss215]

One perspective to potentially consider is that there is no one way

[@ericad8616]

Walter was an interesting guy and seemed like a decent fellow. He was the epitome' of making the best out of a bad situation. I know the interview was back in 2008 and I was going to ask what happened to him, until I read the video description and saw that he passed away back in 2012. It's sad in a way, but his life was very sad as well... because although he sounded used to living tunnels, it still seemed like a very lonely, desperate existence. A big part of me death says death is the end of our existence, but there's a hopeful little part of me that likes to imagine there's something else and I would like to think that Walter was reunited with his brother and that they're together in a better place.

[@watchshows2295]

I see a man with so much pain yet more perseverance, I see a man who refused to take from society or the government and built the strength to make it on his own. I can see a man who doesn’t want any pity for his medical conditions. I see a lot of pain in this man get strong enough to not show it. Live on his own terms and not ask for help from anyone.

[@tattoedmat]

What a fantastic gentleman, Walter obviously had problems but in his own way got through them and lived much better than a lot of us ever will. Thanks for sharing

[@everythingisanAd]

I remember watching this a long while ago thanks for putting it back up on the internet

[@ErikKSwanson]

This video was first posted to the internet in 2023. A shorter 5 minute version was posted in 2022. You might be thinking of a different video

[@kaypacha6995]

What a great dynamic! You can tell he trusted you enough to share all of this. Loved this documentary. I hope there’s more.

[@deathdealer6696]

Thank you for documenting Walters story. He was indeed a great one at telling it. RIP Walter!

[@ErikKSwanson]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@ChrisDielemans]

Such a rich country and let live people live like this,give him a home

[@rd6006]

He seemed like a humble man that just wanted to live simple with no problems... He looked like he'd seen alot!& had a million thoughts! Thank you for sharing this AWESOME story!!

[@PhantomMark]

Oh man, RIP Walter :( Very glad I got to share this vid with you Erik and also Walter before he passed, thanks.

[@Siouxperman]

Walter preserved and cherished his newspaper article of his brother. To keep it in great condition from the 90’s and through some rough years homelessness is special. Walter seemed like a real wholesome dude just wanting to live peacefully and occasionally rock out!! RIP Walter

[@haroldmcbroom7807]

He seemed like a real likeable person, to anyone who just wanted to live life, without causing problems. He was rich in many ways, and more free, than those who chase after money all their lives getting nowhere in the end.

[@wa1ufo]

He was far richer than Trump or the Koch brothers and I honor Walter for knowing what true wealth is!

[@jorgegrotewold3233]

ty for this reminder

[@nicechock]

Carlos is the richest person of those. 100% free and made happy by God alone. You cant ever measure even his happiness.

[@GlazzedDonut]

I came back from the streets myself after a few years I was never lucky enough to have a spot like this although now that I have made it back I have my own car on my own place for a little bit over 10 years and I am raising a child I am hoping I'm praying to God that anybody's stuck in that type of situation can make it back out

[@mario64exprt37]

He just wants to take care of something. The way he talked about his phone, computer, and electricity source shows his need for caring.

[@jackie9834]

To be honest...... Him home seems very comfortable and secure. I'm sad to hear he passed and so many years ago. He seems like a person many would have enjoyed meeting. TY for the share ❣️

[@dubmaster01]

Requiem for a man who never gave up his castle. Respect.

[@StudentLifeLearning]

Dear Sir, I sincerely appreciate the invaluable work you do in making these priceless treasures accessible to the public. Thank you for sharing Walter's story! Rest in Peace, Walter.

[@TheWeeManC]

Walter lives free and at peace in the "great Tunnel in the sky" now. I'm very glad we got to hear the story of His Tunnel and life before he left.....

[@JaredRoby-ro3wz]

I was homeless for almost a decade and I’ve had stuff get stolen constantly you super fortunate to have a spot like that I hope it stays that way much love brother keep your head up

[@kravin74]

What a bummer to hear he passed away. I've seen either this documentary or another one very similar some time ago. I use to run away from home a lot when I was a kid and live in the woods, very old long forgotten barn . I would stay out there by myself for weeks surviving with a 22 rifle and fishing items. I enjoyed it. Every time I would leave to go see what friends were doing and get caught. I can relate to his wanting to be off the grid and have often thought about going back. Anyway I really enjoyed watching this as and the first time. I hope he passed peacefully and is in a good place.

[@MuchCow9000]

I'm glad I found your channel, I was so tired of stupid meaningless youtube videos. Finding a documentary channel with some heart is a nice change of pace

[@ErikKSwanson]

Thank you, I’m glad you’re enjoying my videos. I have several more videos on a variety of topics in the works

[@katherineleonowski7289]

Me too...there's so much more to life than most of the "junk" on the internet!!!

[@xskillzdatki11x]

RIP Walter. He seemed like I cool, real down to earth dude who I’d chill with. When I was younger I used to smoke bud with homeless people under the bridge close to the town I grew up in. They’d always give me life advice and were just all around real genuine people. When I go fishing, I usually give my catch to any homeless people under the bridge. I live in Florida (cocoa beach area) so we have bridges everywhere

[@WelcomePain]

Amazing job brother. Loved every second of it. RIP Walter ❤

[@Paidamoyo-JanetAzehko]

Oh man…this channel has me in tears!!! I started with the first Carlos documentary then the second one and now Walter. RIP Walter. He seemed like such a decent human being. The world could do with more Walters and less ‘tech and money’ type people.

[@cynthiagomez1602]

R.I.Power Mr. Walter... he kept his language clean, he looked well-kept & he seemed to have it all together.

[@CynicalGamingBlogTerry309]

So much respect for this guy, people who can make something out of nothing to make some level of comfort are the most inspirational.

[@roastingpeanuts]

Calling his stuff trash was a dick move dude...

[@johnblyth9787]

Thank you so much for a great story. What a great guy Walter seems. How he survived 25 years is amazing. Sounded if you did not wory him, he would not wory you. If you needed help, he was the man.

[@thepoofication]

Mr Swanson I highly respect the way you treat people and how you understand the value of not releasing information to endanger these people. Sadly, most others would rat anyone out for a thousand views in a heartbeat. Have a nice day sir

[@ErikKSwanson]

Thank you, I appreciate it

[@darrellmurdock6880]

Thank you for sharing this story, it was well received

[@IvyLeagu]

Grateful and humble this was an awesome piece. Rip Walter