Three American holidaymakers have initiated legal action against Airbnb and a rental property company, alleging that they suffered severe burn injuries from a gas explosion at their holiday rental in Mexico. The plaintiffs, identified as Malachi McCormick, Jireh Johnson, and Jeannette Denogean, have filed a federal lawsuit in Nevada, claiming that the incident took place in January 2026 at a property in Puerto Peñasco.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/hospital-patient-030226-1-a4b409669da4411fbc5519e52862a38c.jpg)
According to the lawsuit, the group booked their accommodation through a company entitled FMI US Rentals via Airbnb back in December 2025. On the evening of January 25, 2026, the plaintiffs assert that a gas leak alarm was triggered at the property, but it ceased sounding after approximately three to five minutes. The suit contends that no instructions, emergency protocols, or follow-up notifications were provided to the guests during this initial alarm.
The plaintiffs claim that due to the absence of guidance, they and other guests believed the alarm was simply malfunctioning or that the issue had been resolved. Tragically, later that night, while gathered around a backyard grill that was purportedly not in use, they detected a strong smell of gas. Moments later, they allege that a “sudden and violent gas explosion and fire erupted” in the backyard area.
In the federal complaint, the trio detailed their harrowing experience, claiming the explosion not only ignited their clothing but also sparked “terror and panic” among the guests as they hurriedly sought to escape the flames. They contend that the injuries they sustained were both “severe and debilitating” and resulted directly from the explosion and subsequent fire. Medical treatment for the plaintiffs has included emergency care, hospitalisation, surgeries, skin grafts, and ongoing rehabilitation, as stated in their lawsuit.
The rental company, FMI US Rentals, is named as a defendant in the lawsuit, alongside Airbnb. A representative for Airbnb stated that the company does not typically comment on ongoing litigation, while FMI US Rentals denied the explosion ever occurred. Shindy Bejarano, the company’s office manager, asserted to local media that the incident is fraudulent and that their business is suffering because of what they term a “lie.”
The lawsuit reflects a broader concern regarding the safety of short-term rental properties, with the plaintiffs claiming that both Airbnb and FMI US Rentals were negligent in ensuring the safety of the gas systems and appliances at the property. They are therefore seeking damages to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering, although they have not specified a precise monetary amount in their filing.
Mysty Langford, the attorney representing the plaintiffs, refuted claims that the incident was fabricated, stating emphatically, “This incident absolutely occurred.” Langford highlighted the seriousness of their injuries, noting that one individual in particular has sustained burns covering approximately 60% of his legs. She emphasised that she has seen the medical records and photographs of the injuries, confirming the legitimacy of their claims.
As the case unfolds, it highlights the need for stringent safety protocols in holiday rentals, particularly those listed on platforms such as Airbnb. This incident raises critical questions about the responsibilities of property owners and the companies that facilitate these rentals in ensuring the utmost safety for their guests.
With the legal proceedings set to continue, the plaintiffs are determined to seek accountability and compensation for their traumatic experiences. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the practices employed by short-term rental companies and the protection afforded to guests in rental properties worldwide.