Introduction
related attorneys
SAN FRANCISCO, June 16 – The family of the late Sebastian Mejia filed suit today in California Superior Court against Airbnb for the company’s role in allowing a dangerous rental that would cost the young man his life.
On October 5, 2022, Sebastian turned on the fuel burning water heater located inside of the bathroom to shower with warm water. Due to an improperly installed and damaged exhaust duct, the water heater began emitting dangerously high levels of carbon monoxide into the bathroom, slowly killing him.
His body was found the following day, naked, lying in the shower, face up, with the water running. He was 24 years of age.
A Brazilian police investigation revealed the water heater’s exhaust duct was improperly connected and damaged. The bathroom lacked proper ventilation and the heater was improperly installed inside of the bathroom, in violation of applicable building code.
Despite Airbnb’s marketing efforts to position itself as a purveyor of safety, it refuses to mandate the use of simple carbon monoxide detectors.
Airbnb often acts to improve conditions when forced. In 2022, for example, following a string of shootings that broke out nationwide at Airbnb properties, Airbnb issued a permanent global party ban. It regularly runs background checks aimed at identifying registered sex offenders, among other dangerous individuals. It prohibits its property hosts from harassing guests, installing surveillance, and being discriminatory, among various other rules and regulations aimed at ensuring guest safety.
But for some reason the company has a blind spot when it comes to carbon monoxide.
Sebastian was not the first Airbnb guest to die from carbon monoxide poisoning. In 2013, a 35-year-old Canadian woman died at an Airbnb property in Taiwan. In 2018, a couple from New Orleans died at an Airbnb property in Mexico. In April 2019, a Florida resident died at an Airbnb property in Colombia. In May 2019, six tourists from Brazil died at an Airbnb property in Chile. In December 2021, a 25-year-old Californian died while showering during her stay at an Airbnb property in Mexico. In November 2022, three Americans died at an Airbnb property in Mexico.
Despite these incidents and Airbnb’s knowledge regarding the risks associated with fuel burning appliances in Airbnb rental properties, Airbnb has never required the use of carbon monoxide alarms in regular Airbnb properties that contain fuel burning appliances.
A simple fix may have saved Sebastian’s life, and perhaps many others.
The family is represented by Miami-based Ferraro Law Firm and California-based Wisner Baum.
Featured Articles
our attorneys
Client Experiences
When individuals and families face the challenges of mesothelioma and asbestos exposure—coping with complex treatments, escalating costs, and emotional strain—they turn to Ferraro Law for clarity, guidance, and steadfast support. Through meticulous case preparation, empathetic counsel, and strategic representation, our attorneys build compelling cases that secure meaningful settlements to cover medical expenses, provide financial relief, and offer a path toward stability during difficult times.
5 Stars!! Berta, I want you to know you have the patience of a saint. It is not easy working with the public. I know firsthand. You take your time to explain so that the person understands what you are saying & if there is a problem you get to the bottom of it and come up with the answer as to why – problem solved. You are professional (very). Thank you for your time & energy you spent with me. Hopefully, management will recognize your work ethics. People like you are hard to find. You are an asset to the law firm.
Wishing you all the Best,
Bernardine Brown
Bernadine B.
5 Stars, I have been a client of The Ferraro law Firm for 24 years and everyone has been very helpful. When I had a question, it was answered promptly and without all the legalese. I would recommend the Ferraro Law Firm and attorney Jose Becerra because the entire team has been caring and professional. For many years, Nestor has been one of the best workers The Ferraro Law Firm has.
Lynn
5 STARS Thank God for the Ferraro Law firm. Every time I call to speak with my Attorney, Marc Kunen, he and his assistants are always helpful and take the time to answer my questions. I highly recommend The Ferraro Law Firm. The Ferraro Law Firm is the mouthpiece for those of us who need help.
Reverend Henry
My father passed away from mesothelioma and The Ferraro Law Firm has been there for me and my family for over 10 years. Our attorney, Aleksandra Sikorska, and Nestor in the settlements department will get the job done and are very kind and compassionate.
Michelle
Free Case Consultation
Our Trial and Appellate Attorneys Are Ready to Fight for You
If you were seriously injured, remember that it is crucial to choose the right law firm to represent your interests. We have been doing this for more than three decades, and have the resources you need to challenge any opponent!
Free Consultation
Disclaimer: The information on this website and our social media channels is for general purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.
