### Family Seeks Compensation After Café Collapse in Tijuana
**Tijuana, September 24, 2024** – Over a month has passed since a tragic incident at the “Aquamarino” café in Playas de Tijuana, where a second-floor collapse left five people injured. Among the victims is Katia Lara, who, along with her six-year-old daughter, sustained significant injuries. The family is now seeking compensation for the damages and medical expenses incurred.
On August 14, Katia and her family were enjoying a day out at the café when the structure gave way, causing them to fall from the second floor. Katia suffered a severe wrist fracture, while her daughter sustained a humerus fracture in her left arm, requiring multiple surgeries and a lengthy recovery process.
“We have not been able to return to normal activities because of my severe injuries and my daughter’s condition,” Katia shared. Her daughter recently underwent surgery and faces another procedure to remove steel pins within the next eight months. The cumulative medical expenses, including surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation, have already amounted to approximately one hundred thousand pesos.
In the days following the accident, Katia’s attorney reached out to the café’s owner to discuss potential compensation. Although the owner initially expressed willingness to provide assistance, they could not agree on specific terms, leading Katia to file a formal complaint with the State Attorney General’s Office (FGE).
Katia recounted the frustrating interactions with the café’s staff, who visited the hospital offering alternate transport and meals but were unable to make any concrete decisions. “My aunt spoke with them, and they confirmed they did not have the authority to make decisions on behalf of the owner,” Katia explained.
The deteriorating condition of the café was cited as a contributing factor to the collapse. Despite the initial discussions, there has been no further contact or aid from the café owner, prompting the family to pursue legal action.
Katia reminisced about the day of the incident, revealing it was meant as a family reunion with her 54-year-old mother and 18-year-old brother, who also fell victim to the collapse. “We had just settled on the terrace, and minutes later, the floor gave out,” she recalled.
Attempts to reach the café owner through the establishment’s listed number have been unsuccessful. The family’s plight underscores the need for accountability and adequate safety measures in public spaces.
### Related News: Structural Failures in Tijuana’s Coastal Cafés
In a similar vein, other cafés and commercial establishments along Tijuana’s coastal areas have come under scrutiny. Following the “Aquamarino” incident, local authorities, including the Department of Civil Protection, have initiated comprehensive inspections of coastal businesses to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
### Inspection and Regulatory Actions
– **Scheduled Inspections:** Civil Protection teams are set to inspect all vendors and establishments operating in Tijuana’s coastal zone, aiming to prevent incidents similar to the Aquamarino collapse.
– **Response from Business Community:** Several business owners have expressed concerns about the rigorous inspections but acknowledge the necessity for improved safety standards.
### Broader Implications
The collapse at “Aquamarino” has spurred broader discussions about the safety and maintenance of commercial structures in scenic and heavily trafficked areas of Tijuana. Residents and visitors alike demand assurances that such tragedies can be prevented through diligent oversight and accountability.
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