(Editor's note: A prior version of this article listed Crashed N221 LLC as a defendant based on the complaint filed in the case, which identified Crashed 221 LLC as a defendant. Ms. Mindy Bohn, owner of Crashed N221 LLC, has informed the Southeast Texas Record that Crashed N221 LLC does not do business as Signal Security of Southwest Houston, and was incorrectly listed as a defendant in the lawsuit, therefore the reference to Crashed N221 LLC in this article has been removed).
HOUSTON — A Houston apartment complex owner and others are facing a negligence claim after a resident was assaulted and shot outside of his apartment.
Sarbelio Lara, Gloria Mabel Campos and Sarbelio Lara, Jr., filed a complaint April 21 in Harris County District Court against CDPO Spring Meadows LLC, Signal 88 Security of Southwest Houston and Signal 88 LLC alleging negligence.
The plaintiffs, according to their complaint, were residents of the Arbor on Richmond apartments in Houston owned by CDPO. They claim that on May 13, 2020, Lara Sr., was sitting outside of his apartment when an "unknown assailant" punched him, shot him and caused him to suffer serious injuries that have left him disabled. The plaintiffs allege the defendants failed to address the criminal activity on the premises and had no security guard.
They further allege the defendants' negligence for failing to warn the apartment residents of the risks, properly train their employees or have safety policies and procedures in place. The plaintiffs claim the defendants failed to have proper security systems despite at least 21 separate crime reports filed with the Houston Police Department regarding crime at the apartment complex. They also claim Lara suffered bullet fragments in his head and neck which will require future surgery.
The plaintiffs seek monetary relief of more than $1 million, interest and all other just relief. They are represented by David Mestemaker, Norman Straub and Jonathan Zumwalt of Mestemaker, Straub & Zumwalt in Houston.
Harris County District Court case number 2022-23973