HOUSTON – Dr. Matthews visited the Mira Bella Apartments on Imperial Valley Drive in north Houston after residents reported a ceiling collapse inside an apartment that killed a dog and injured two people.

Residents said the collapse happened the previous afternoon while two people were inside the apartment. One resident said his girlfriend had stepped outside moments before the ceiling gave way, while he and another man were trapped beneath falling sheetrock. Both were taken to a hospital for treatment. The family’s dog later died following the ceiling collapse.

Dr. Matthews toured the damaged apartment, where large sections of the ceiling had collapsed into the living area. Other sections of the ceiling appeared to be bulging, and visible mold was present in multiple areas. Residents also said they had experienced ongoing roof leaks before the ceiling gave way, raising additional concerns about the condition of the building.

The tenant said apartment management inspected the damage after the collapse but did not immediately provide another unit, leaving the family without safe housing. During the visit, Dr. Matthews called for the resident to be relocated immediately, saying the apartment was no longer safe to occupy.

Residents also described numerous maintenance concerns throughout the complex, including rotting stairways, unstable walkways, damaged structures, and a green swimming pool. Several tenants said they have dealt with recurring roof leaks, mold, extensive roach infestations, damaged appliances, weak flooring, and unsafe balconies for months despite reporting the issues to management. One resident said they pay approximately $1,350 per month in rent despite the reported conditions.

Dr. Matthews also spoke with a representative for the apartment complex, who said management had attempted to contact the tenant following the collapse and was working to relocate him. Dr. Matthews says she will follow up with the tenant later to confirm he has been relocated.

Dr. Matthews said she plans to contact Harris County officials, including Commissioner Rodney Ellis, and request inspections by code enforcement, fire officials, and other agencies to determine whether additional safety violations exist at the complex.