United Pilot Initiates Legal Action Against Marriott After Bat Infestation in Accommodation Causes Bites and Rabies Inoculations

An airline pilot hailing from California has filed a lawsuit against Marriott following an incident where he was attacked by a group of bats in his hotel room at the Sheraton Denver Downtown on August 29, 2025. The pilot, reportedly employed by United Airlines, was at the hotel for training purposes. Upon waking up, he noticed bats flying in his accommodation, alerted the hotel staff, and although the maintenance team removed the bats, he was not provided with an alternative room. He identified a gap in the air conditioning unit, which he covered with a towel. The following morning, he discovered yet another bat in the room and was informed by animal control that bats in the vicinity had tested positive for rabies. After noticing a bite on his foot, he pursued rabies treatment, leading to medical expenses that surpassed $100,000. The pilot, who now has difficulty sleeping in hotels, initially sought a settlement from Marriott, but the proposals were considered inadequate, resulting in a lawsuit for reimbursement of medical costs and emotional distress. This incident highlights concerns regarding hotel safety and their response measures.