There Used to Be People Here

In 1970s Mississippi, a Black detective and his temporary partner are assigned to a case that shifts from murder to paranormal conspiracy with life-altering repercussions.

Wenton, Mississippi: A man enters the bathroom of a local gay bar and doesnt come back out. Instead hes found cold, on the floor, and facing the wall. And no one seems to know how this happened.

Samuel Barkley is Wentons only Black detective. Assigned to the case, Samuels one goal is to keep his head down with eyes on moving up in the police ranks. But its not easy with Harvey, a new, temporary partner who Samuel cant seem to like...or hate. Nor with the cold, questioning eyes and fake smiles from those in town. Persistent. Judging. Wrong. Samuel is reaching his breaking point.

As his investigation leads him to a curious plane crash cover-up, Samuels placid existence is turned on its head. Because what crashed in Wenton isnt a plane. There are others here. They like it here. And if Samuel cant stop them, they will find a way to stay.

With shades of The X-Files and S. A. Cosby, There Used to Be People Here deftly explores race, queerness, and existing as other in a society that demonizes everything different.