A San Antonio resident, Kayla Walker, expressed deep discomfort after discovering significant pest problems shortly after moving her family to The Gobi apartment complex in Balcones Heights from Virginia.

Initial Deplorable Conditions Reported

Walker stated that upon her initial walkthrough, she observed what she described as deplorable conditions. These included evidence of roaches, such as eggs and droppings, located behind the stove and within the crevices of cabinets and closets.

Pest Activity Captured on Camera

Despite initial efforts to have the property managers clean the unit, the infestation persisted. Walker’s security camera captured footage of a rodent actively stealing food.

She detailed an incident where the mouse snatched pizza from behind the stove, moving with surprising speed. Walker also noted that food stored in the oven, such as Chinese takeout, had bite marks, leading her to believe the pests were responsible for noises she previously attributed to the ice maker.

Structural Issues Compound Resident's Fears

Beyond the pests, Walker pointed out structural security issues within her unit. Specifically, she highlighted a window in the dining area that was not secure, featuring mangled metal and jagged glass.

Walker emphasized her distress, stating, "I'm not comfortable at all." She refrained from placing furniture or a television in the area due to the unsafe conditions.

Property Management Response

When FOX SA's Investigative Problem Solver Darian Trotter approached the front office regarding Walker's concerns, the front office manager declined to comment, twice asking if the reporter was related to Ms. Walker.

Walker expressed frustration over having to address issues that should have been resolved before her move-in date. The property manager later responded to the station's inquiry, claiming the "rodent issue was addressed immediately" and that a "follow up inspection and additional treatment" occurred.

Official Violations Issued

Code enforcement officers visited the property and issued three official notices of violations.

  • One violation cited a light gap near the front door locks and knob.
  • A second violation addressed the unsecured window in the dining room.
  • The third and most serious notice was for the live roach and rodent infestation present in the unit.