In the quiet town of Flatwoods, nestled in the hills of West Virginia, a peculiar and chilling event unfolded on the evening of September 12, 1952. The Flatwoods Monster Incident, as it came to be known, remains one of the most intriguing and debated UFO sightings in American history.
The Encounter
On that fateful evening, brothers Edward (13yo) and Fred May (12yo), along with their friend Tommy Hyer (10yo), witnessed a bright, fiery object streak across the sky and seemingly crash into a nearby hill. Intrigued and alarmed, the boys ran to their home and informed their mother, Kathleen May, who gathered a group of locals, including National Guardsman Eugene Lemon, to investigate.
As they ascended the hill to the crash site, the group reported encountering a bizarre and unsettling entity. It was described as a humanoid figure, approximately 10 feet tall (approximately 3 meters), with a red, glowing face and a hood-like shape resembling the ace of spades. The creature’s body was said to emit a greenish glow and appeared metallic or robotic. Witnesses also reported an acrid, nauseating smell in the area and experienced symptoms such as throat irritation and vomiting afterward.
The original drawing of the Flatwoods Monster by a New York sketch artist.
The Investigation
The sighting quickly garnered attention, drawing both media and government interest. The next day, authorities examined the site but found no definitive evidence of a crash or extraterrestrial presence. The area was, however, noted to have unusual skid marks and an oily residue, which some speculated could be linked to the reported UFO.
Theories and Explanations
The Flatwoods Monster Incident has inspired numerous theories over the decades:
Legacy and Cultural Impact
The Flatwoods Monster has transcended its origins, becoming a cultural icon in West Virginia and beyond. The small town of Flatwoods capitalized on the event, branding itself “Home of the Green Monster” and hosting annual festivals to commemorate the sighting. The incident has inspired books, documentaries and even video game appearances, solidifying its place in UFO folklore.
The Truth Behind the Mystery
Despite extensive investigations and speculation, the Flatwoods Monster Incident remains unresolved. Whether the witnesses encountered an alien visitor, a misunderstood animal or something entirely different, their stories continue to captivate and perplex.
The Flatwoods Monster serves as a reminder of humanity’s enduring fascination with the unknown and our quest to understand the mysteries of the universe. Whatever the truth may be, the events of that September evening in 1952 have ensured their place in the annals of UFO history.