Naples Family Sues Airbnb Over Son’s Tragic Death in Brazil

A Naples family is taking legal action against Airbnb following the tragic death of their 25-year-old son, Patrick Wolff, who died from carbon monoxide poisoning during a vacation in Brazil. The lawsuit, filed in California, claims Airbnb failed to ensure the rental property was equipped with proper safety measures, including carbon monoxide detectors.

Patrick, a recent college graduate and avid traveler, was staying at a property in Teresópolis, a mountain town near Rio de Janeiro, when he was found unresponsive in the shower in January 2022. An investigation revealed a gas leak from a faulty water heater, leading to fatal exposure.

The wrongful death lawsuit accuses Airbnb of negligence, asserting that the company did not adequately vet the safety of the property or inform guests about the absence of carbon monoxide detectors. The family also named the property owner and property manager in the suit.

The case underscores growing concerns about traveler safety and platform accountability as short-term rental services expand globally. Airbnb, in response, expressed sympathy but emphasized that host compliance with local laws is a shared responsibility.

The Wolff family hopes the lawsuit brings awareness to prevent future tragedies and pushes for stricter safety protocols on platforms like Airbnb.