An Oregon father is taking legal action against his apartment complex after claiming a disturbing incident involving his infant son and a dead mouse inside their home.
According to Law & Crime, Bryan Padilla filed a lawsuit against AMFP V Pine Village LLC, the company that owns the apartment complex where the incident allegedly occurred.
Padilla, his wife, and their 10-month-old son had just moved into the Portland unit on November 8.
Baby Allegedly Put Dead Mouse in Mouth
The lawsuit states that Padilla had submitted multiple maintenance requests regarding a rodent infestation prior to the incident. On December 22, a mouse reportedly entered the apartment — and the situation quickly escalated. According to the complaint, Padilla discovered that his infant son had picked up a dead mouse and placed it in his mouth.
The child was immediately taken to the emergency room, where doctors determined he did not suffer any serious medical complications from the exposure. Following the incident, the family vacated the apartment within days, citing unsafe living conditions.
Padilla’s attorney, Michael Fuller, alleges that the landlord failed to comply with the Oregon Residential Landlord Tenant Act. In a statement, Fuller said the family experienced major disruptions, including reduced rental value, emotional distress, and interference with daily life.
“[The] plaintiff experienced diminution in rental value, odor, separation from friends or family members, inability to sleep or eat in the unit, interference with life activities, and similar disruptions of one’s personal life,” the complaint states.
Family Seeking Damages
The lawsuit is seeking:
$2,600 in refunded rent
$122,000 in non-economic damages
The case will ultimately determine whether the property owner failed to properly address the reported rodent issue and maintain safe living conditions.
Legal Spotlight on Landlord Responsibilities
The case highlights ongoing concerns about landlord accountability regarding habitability standards, particularly in relation to pest control and tenant safety.
Under Oregon law, landlords are required to maintain rental units in a condition that is safe, sanitary, and fit for occupancy.
