Residents of the La Aurora apartment complex continue to fear for their safety after structural damage was caused by unauthorized renovations in one of the units. Despite multiple complaints and official intervention, authorities have been unable to locate the apartment’s owner to address the issue.
Concerned neighbors have sent two letters to municipal authorities, warning of visible fractures in the building. The damage stems from illegal remodeling in a ground-floor apartment of Building 2001-A, located at the corner of Prisciliano Sánchez and Universo Avenues. Walls were removed without proper permits, structural reinforcements, or approval from the other apartment owners. After an inspection on March 12, the city shut down the construction and required temporary supports to prevent a collapse.
Jorge Alberto Balderas Betancourt, Director of Territorial Planning and Urban Development, confirmed that officials have been following up on the case but have been unable to locate the owner. “The house is abandoned, and he’s not answering his phone. It seems he rented it out, and the tenant is also unresponsive,” Balderas explained.
The structural issues have left residents anxious. “Neighbors have filed complaints, fearing their building is cracking. We’ve requested Civil Protection to evaluate the situation and determine whether evacuation is necessary,” Balderas stated.
Despite speculation that the unit was intended for commercial use, Balderas ruled out the possibility of a convenience store or pharmacy, stating that no business applications have been filed and the space is unsuitable for such establishments.
Residents believe the owner is José Rodríguez but have no information about the tenant responsible for the renovations. “We’ve attempted to track down the owner, but the priority is ensuring repairs are made—either by him or the tenant he leased it to,” Balderas added.
With the apartment vacant but upper floors still occupied, residents continue to call for immediate action. Authorities are urging Civil Protection, under Commander Misael López, to conduct a new assessment and determine if evacuation is necessary before further damage occurs.