Gabriel Salazar has taken legal action against a prominent fitness chain, alleging negligence and premises liability following a violent incident at one of its facilities. On October 30, 2024, Salazar filed a complaint in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, against Titan Fitness Texas, LLC, operating as Fitness Connection.
The lawsuit stems from an altercation that occurred on June 26, 2023. According to the complaint, Salazar was a member of Fitness Connection and had previously reported unauthorized access being granted to non-members at the facility. Despite assurances from management that security measures were in place, Salazar claims he witnessed an individual gain entry without triggering any alarms. This individual later engaged in a basketball game with Salazar and his son and allegedly assaulted Salazar's son during the game. When Salazar intervened, he was struck by the assailant, resulting in significant injuries to his right eye and face.
Salazar accuses Titan Fitness Texas of failing to maintain a safe environment for its patrons. The plaintiff argues that the defendant's negligence included inadequate security measures and failure to address unauthorized access effectively. Furthermore, Salazar asserts that as a business licensee on the premises for sports activities, he was owed a duty of care by the fitness center to warn him of potential dangers.
In seeking justice through this lawsuit, Salazar is demanding monetary relief exceeding $250,000 but not more than $1 million. He seeks compensation for past and future physical pain and suffering, medical expenses, loss of enjoyment of life, mental anguish due to emotional distress caused by the incident, court costs, pre- and post-judgment interest at the highest rate allowed by law.
Representing Gabriel Salazar are attorneys Demetris Guzman (Texas Bar No. 24125262), Dominick D. Dunlap (Texas Bar No. 24112356), and Marco Gonzalez (Texas Bar No. 24087601) from The Gonzalez Law Group PLLC based in Houston. The case is filed under Case ID 2024-75858 in the 295th Judicial District Court of Harris County.