HUMBLE, Texas – Apartment pools were designed to have residents swimming, relaxing with their guests and family, and maybe even a cookout. They weren't designed for out-of-control brawls like the one captured on cellphone video Sunday night at the Bellaterra at Deerbrook Apartments in Humble.
It was recorded after a dispute between two residents: An off-duty Lone Star College police officer and a man named Christian Bustillo.
"When I was getting out of the water I said, 'Hey, you're not supposed to talk to us like we're dogs. We're not animals,'" said Bustillo.
Bustillo said he and his family were in the pool and grilling when the officer -- whom Local 2 won't name because no charges have been filed -- told them it was time to leave.
It was 9 p.m., but the pool doesn't close until 10 p.m.
Bustillo said the officer, who also serves a security role for the complex on Humble Westfield Road, came back at 9:45 p.m. He said she became belligerent, told them to leave again and after placing a phone in front of his face for a picture, he pushed the phone away and the fight began.
Chaos ensued, fists flew and the female officer even connected with a serious elbow to one of the residents' faces.
Local 2 went by the officer's apartment to get her side of the story, but she slammed the door shut without making comment.
Since police were unable to determine exactly who started the fight they said it's unlikely charges will be filed in the case.
Bustillo is scheduled to meet Wednesday morning with a representative from the Lone Star College Police Department. He doesn't know what the outcome will be but said he hopes to be able to use the pool in the future without being harassed.