Van Nuys, CA — A quiet neighborhood known for its manicured lawns, palm trees, and single-family homes has been disrupted by a loud train horn affixed to a tree by a homeowner, sparking police involvement and community concern.
Homeowner Uses Train Horn as “Cry for Help”
The homeowner, Gary Boyadzhyan, 50, an unemployed car technician, set off the horn repeatedly over the last two months at irregular intervals, drawing complaints and attention from neighbors. On Wednesday, LAPD officers arrested Boyadzhyan after he activated the horn again despite previously promising to keep it silent.
“He’s a nice guy who is just going through something,” one neighbor said, describing Boyadzhyan, echoing concerns about his well-being rather than just the noise.
Boyadzhyan told Los Angeles Times reporters that the situation with the horn is a “cry for help” and alluded to being “wronged” by someone, without elaborating.
Horn Installed on Palm Tree Over Home
Neighbors described Boyadzhyan’s setup as similar to a big-rig or train horn, hanging over his single-story home. Since June, he has triggered the horn in long bursts, often in the late afternoon or at night, causing window-rattling and discomfort.
“I didn’t know where it was coming from all this time,” said neighbor Clara Espinoza, who has lived nearby for 24 years. “Oh, it’s Gary’s house,” she added after discovering the source.
- Horn blasts occurred 20–40 times per interval, according to residents.
- Neighbors expressed concern for Boyadzhyan’s mental health more than the noise itself.
Police Response and Arrest
On Wednesday, LAPD officers knocked on Boyadzhyan’s door to address the ongoing dispute. He spoke briefly to officers in casual attire before the situation escalated.
“We are aware,” Officer Chase Lambert said, motioning to the property and horn. “There are things that are being worked on to alleviate the horn issue.”
Hours later, after the horn sounded again, officers handcuffed Boyadzhyan on his front lawn and arrested him on suspicion of interfering with a peace officer and disturbing the peace, both misdemeanors. He was booked into county jail and released the next morning on his own recognizance.
Community and City Response
Neighbors report Boyadzhyan often wanders his property late at night, working with power tools or vehicles, raising additional safety concerns.
City officials, including a spokesperson from Councilmember Imelda Padilla’s office, emphasized both community safety and offering help to Boyadzhyan:
“Our office will be coordinating with appropriate authorities to address these concerns and bring order back to the neighbors on Peach [Avenue] and ensure the individual is offered help,” Padilla said. “This neighborhood deserves peace and quiet in its homes, and the current situation is unacceptable.”
The incident has drawn attention to the balance between neighborly peace and individual struggles, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness in such disputes (source).
What are your thoughts on this unusual neighborhood dispute? Share your perspective in the comments.
