Batra v. Clark

OPINION

TIM TAFT, Justice.

Appellant, Dinesh Batra, appeals a verdict finding him negligent and awarding damages to appellee, Tammy Clark, individually and as next friend of Clarissa Ewell. We determine whether Batra, an out-of-possession landlord who retained no control over the premises of the rental property, owed a duty to Ewell, a third party who was injured on the property. We reverse and render judgment that Clark take nothing from Batra.

Facts and Procedural History

Ewell, a nine-year-old girl, was attacked by a pit bull at a house located in Baytown, Texas. Batra was the owner and…