MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Residents of Gospel Gardens apartments in Whitehaven are living in dangerous conditions, according to complaints to ABC24.
Ashley Austin said her air conditioner has been out for more than a month, and despite complaints to management about the hot and humid living conditions, nothing has been done.
She said this is not the first time she has been without air conditioning.
"Last year, it was out for four months," she said.
In addition to the lack of air conditioning as the heat index nears 90, Austin‘s toilet is not even fixed to the bathroom floor.
Shortly after ABC24 arrived at the Gospel Garden Apartment complex, dozens of other tenants who chose to stay anonymous complained about similar living conditions inside their units.
"My air has been out for three months," said one woman. "They’re treating us like we ain’t humans, and we are."
Tyqura Keith, who is in the process of being evicted, said she has had major water issues for months.
"I have been dealing with this since December 2023," Keith said.
ABC24's attempts to speak with Gospel Gardens management were unsuccessful. The door was locked, the light was on, but no one came to the door.
Many who live at Gospel Gardens said they have not only complained to the management but also tried to reach out to the city for help.
A city spokesperson said they have at least one complaint against the apartment complex, and, based on ABC24's investigation, they will initiate further action.
"I’m not comfortable being here," Austin said. "I have to just stand outside or go to my parents' house, go to my grandparents' house, just to feel like I’m getting some air."
The City of Memphis code enforcement cited the complex Thursday night, giving them 48 hours to fix the air conditioning in the entire complex.
On Saturday, the City of Memphis did issue a violation to the apartment complex.