Texas Woman Finds Ominous Note While Dumpster Diving at T.J. Maxx
DALLAS, Texas — A Texas woman known for sharing her dumpster diving adventures on TikTok was startled after finding a threatening message written directly on a T.J. Maxx dumpster, warning her by name to stay out. The discovery, which she later shared with her 2.3 million followers, has sparked both safety concerns and renewed debate about the legality of dumpster diving in the United States.
Dumpster Diving Takes a Scary Turn
The content creator, Ella (@glamourddive), has built a loyal audience by salvaging discarded merchandise from retail dumpsters, often donating her finds to families in need. What began as a routine trip to a local T.J. Maxx turned unsettling when she spotted her name scrawled in marker on the dumpster’s exterior:
“Ella Rose — stay out.”
Ella shared in her TikTok video that she had “never seen that before,” admitting she wasn’t sure if the warning came from an employee or another dumpster diver competing for items.
A Note at Burlington Raises More Questions
The situation escalated when Ella moved on to a nearby Burlington store dumpster. There, she found a handwritten note taped to the back door, allegedly directed at the manager. The note referenced one of Ella’s past viral videos, where she was chased away during a dive, and accused her of stealing:
“Put an end to her stealing from you,” the note read in part.
Ella dismissed the accusation, calling the act “insane” and pointing out that all of the items she collected were discarded goods, not stolen merchandise.
Online Reaction: Fans Urge Caution
Ella’s video documenting the notes quickly reached over 1 million views, with followers expressing alarm over the apparent targeting.
One commenter urged, “Wait that’s scary, sis — stay safe because clearly whoever it is is watching you.” Another speculated that the note may have been written by a disgruntled employee who wanted the discarded items for themselves.
Others defended Ella, reminding critics that discarded property is considered public domain once placed in accessible trash areas.
Is Dumpster Diving Legal?
The incident reignited discussion about whether dumpster diving itself is against the law. According to legal experts, dumpster diving is legal in every state, provided divers do not trespass on restricted property or break local ordinances. Once trash is placed on public curbs or in accessible dumpsters, ownership is considered relinquished.
Still, businesses often discourage the practice, citing liability concerns and safety hazards. Store employees may perceive divers as trespassers if they enter fenced-in or locked areas, even if the law ultimately protects divers’ rights.
A Growing Subculture
Dumpster diving has grown into a popular online subculture, with influencers like Ella showcasing how much waste retailers discard, from unused fans and electronics to clothing with original tags still attached. For many viewers, the trend underscores the consumer waste crisis in the U.S., while others see it as a way to access items they otherwise couldn’t afford.
But with Ella’s latest experience, the videos now highlight a darker side: the potential dangers of being monitored or targeted while dumpster diving.
Safety vs. Sustainability
The threatening note serves as a reminder that while dumpster diving may be legal, divers must weigh personal safety against the rewards. Ella has made it clear she won’t stop, but she admitted the incident was “one of the scariest moments” she has experienced while filming.
Would you ever consider dumpster diving, or do the risks outweigh the rewards? Share your thoughts with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
