Never hurts to ask! Man receives refund after RodeoHouston chaos
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Paul DeCarlo had never written a Facebook message to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo before. It's never crossed his mind.
Then Wednesday, DeCarlo and his girlfriend were among thousands caught up in the active shooter chaos in the rodeo's carnival area. The couple was ushered out of the gates and given few answers.
"I did not like what happened there," said DeCarlo. "I did not like the way the situation was handled at the time, like what actually happened there, we don't know yet."
DeCarlo took to Facebook with his frustrations and messaged the rodeo asking for a refund.
RELATED: Timeline of events of chaos at the Houston Rodeo
He didn't think much about it, but five days later, found a response.
"They said, 'Hi Paul, please give us your information,'" DeCarlo read from the computer screen.
Then Monday, the emails came through.
DeCarlo got a refund from the rodeo for his carnival entrance fee, and was also offered a free pair of tickets for this week.
The refund was only $22, but DeCarlo said it wasn't about the amount of money.
Reached by phone, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo officials told ABC13 they are considering refunds on a case-by-case basis there is no set policy.
DeCarlo said he was initially frustrated by the rodeo's reactions. However, now with the refund, his attitude has softened a bit.
"Really amicable and said, 'we'll just refund you and give you free tickets.' I thought that made sense," DeCarlo said.
Again, there is no set policy on refunds relating to Wednesday, but if you would like to talk to the rodeo about your experience, you can contact the office at (832) 667-1080.
You can also send an email to questions@rodeohouston.com
