A lawsuit has been filed against a property management company following a dangerous incident involving a minor at an apartment complex. On November 25, 2024, Christopher Otash, acting on behalf of his minor child R.O., filed a complaint in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, against UDR, Inc.
The case stems from an incident that occurred on September 27, 2024, at MacAlpine Place, an apartment complex owned and managed by UDR, Inc., located in Dunedin, Florida. According to the complaint, R.O. was visiting the premises as an invited guest when he attempted to use one of the barbecue grills in the common area. The grill allegedly constituted a hazardous condition and exploded upon ignition attempt, causing R.O. serious and permanent injuries.
Christopher Otash accuses UDR, Inc., along with its employees and agents, of negligence for failing to maintain safe conditions on their property. The complaint outlines several breaches of duty by the defendant: allowing a dangerous hazard to exist on their premises; failing to ensure a safe environment for tenants and guests; neglecting to warn about potential dangers; not inspecting for hazardous conditions; and generally failing to exercise reasonable care for safety.
As a result of these alleged failures by UDR, Inc., R.O. suffered extensive injuries leading to pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, loss of earnings capacity among other damages. These injuries are claimed to be either permanent or ongoing with expected future implications.
In response to these grievances, Christopher Otash is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 from UDR Inc., exclusive of costs. He demands judgment against the defendant along with a trial by jury to address these claims comprehensively.
Representing Christopher Otash is Gregory Thacker from Thacker and Mulvihill PLLC law firm based in Clearwater Florida. The case has been filed under Case Number 24-005170-CI with Judge Ken Burke overseeing proceedings at Pinellas County Circuit Court.