Introduction
related attorneys
When safety is overlooked, the consequences can be tragic.
That’s the central issue in a case recently brought by The Ferraro Law Firm against Airbnb, following the heartbreaking loss of 24-year-old Sebastian Mejia. On October 5, 2022, Sebastian died from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning while showering at an Airbnb rental property in Brazil. He had just moved from Miami to Rio de Janeiro on a Fulbright Scholarship to study indigenous communities—a journey driven by purpose, promise, and public service. Now, his family is left grappling with an unimaginable loss, determined to hold the company accountable for a death they believe could have been prevented.
The case is being called a potential landmark amid growing legal scrutiny of vacation rental platforms.
In a statement to Morningstar Business Wire, José Becerra, Partner at The Ferraro Law Firm, shared:
“This is a huge win for the Mejia family and for all families who have been affected by Airbnb’s negligence. Arbitration would have done nothing in the way of punishing Airbnb and would also have kept the public in the dark as to its inaction regarding requiring CO detectors on its properties and potential risks to renters.”
This ruling not only allows the case to proceed in public court, but it also opens the door for broader accountability surrounding Airbnb’s safety policies and platform oversight.
A Preventable Death and a Missing Detector
The lawsuit stems from the death of 24-year-old Sebastian Mejia, who died from carbon monoxide poisoning while showering at an Airbnb rental property in Rio de Janeiro. Investigators found that a malfunctioning fuel-burning water heater had leaked carbon monoxide into the bathroom, which lacked a detector—a simple, life-saving device. Although Airbnb stated in 2014 that it would begin requiring CO detectors in Airbnb listings, no such mandate has been enforced, even eight years later when Sebastian Mejia lost his life in 2022.
Airbnb’s Responsibility and Its Failures
What makes this case even more alarming is that Airbnb had long been aware of the growing concerns surrounding carbon monoxide in its rental properties. The company has even publicly promoted free smoke and CO detectors for hosts. Yet in this instance, the property allegedly failed to meet even the most basic safety expectations—and Airbnb did not require or enforce life-saving standards.
As The Ferraro Law Firm Partner José Becerra noted in an interview with Morningstar, the court’s decision represents an important step not just for the Mejia family, but for all families affected by similar safety lapses. He pointed out that if the case had been forced into arbitration, these failures could have remained hidden from public view.
Airbnb operates on a global scale and earns billions by connecting travelers with short-term rentals. That kind of reach comes with responsibility. When dangers like carbon monoxide are well understood and preventable, failing to require basic safety measures can lead to exactly the kind of legal action we’re seeing in this case.
A Broader Legal Conversation
This lawsuit could set a powerful legal precedent, challenging how far Airbnb’s responsibility extends when lives are put at risk on its platform. Unlike hotels, which are heavily regulated for health and safety, many vacation rentals operate in legal gray areas. As more people turn to short-term rentals for travel, the lack of consistent safety standards has become a growing concern—not just among attorneys, but also among regulators and public health advocates.
This case also raises questions about jurisdiction, user protection across international borders, and what responsibility platforms have to verify safety compliance.
At The Ferraro Law Firm, we believe that no company should be above accountability, especially when lives are at stake.
Raising the Standard Through Accountability and Justice
We are proud to stand with the Mejia family in this case and remain committed to seeking justice in court. But beyond that, we hope this trial sends a clear message: when a platform profits from connecting people to places to stay, there are basic safety responsibilities that must be upheld. If that doesn’t happen, accountability must follow—and The Ferraro Law Firm is here to help pursue it.
Families impacted by carbon monoxide exposure are often left without clear answers or support. We’re here to help by pushing for transparency, raising awareness around preventable risks, and working to make sure safety standards are taken seriously—across all types of vacation and rental properties.
Concerned About Carbon Monoxide Safety?
Carbon monoxide exposure can cause serious harm—and in some cases, tragic loss. If you or someone you love has been affected after staying in a vacation rental, hotel, or residential property, you may have legal options. Our team can help you understand your rights and whether pursuing legal action makes sense for your situation.
Read the whole article here:
The Ferraro Law Firm to Take Airbnb to Trial – Morningstar
#CarbonMonoxide #WrongfulDeath #AirbnbLawsuit #FerraroLawFirm #JoseBecerra #CorporateAccountability #TravelSafety
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.