BIRMINGHAM, Mich. – The homeowner at the center of a large pool party that prompted police intervention and neighborhood complaints in Birmingham is speaking publicly for the first time, apologizing for the disruption while disputing several characterizations of the event.
In a statement released on Facebook on Friday (June 19), the homeowner (who wants to remain anonymous) acknowledged that guests leaving the June 13 gathering caused significant traffic congestion and inconvenienced nearby residents.
“Regardless of how the event began, I understand that many neighbors were inconvenienced, and for that I am genuinely sorry,” the homeowner said. “I value this community and want to be a good neighbor.”
The homeowner said future events would include additional planning, oversight, and crowd-management measures to prevent similar issues.
Police response, citations follow large gathering
The statement comes days after the Birmingham Police Department said officers responded multiple times to a party in the 300 block of Westchester Way that eventually grew to several hundred attendees.
Police previously said the gathering involved a private residential pool rented to a third party, which city officials contend violates zoning regulations for single-family residential properties.
Homeowner disputes rental platform claims
The homeowner disputed reports that the gathering was connected to a short-term rental platform.
“The event was not an Airbnb rental, Swimply rental, or other short-term rental arrangement,” the statement said. “It was a pool party that I let someone host.”
While acknowledging attendance exceeded expectations, the homeowner said the event remained peaceful.
“There were no fights, no acts of violence, and no significant disturbances among attendees,” the statement said. “The overwhelming majority of those present came to enjoy themselves responsibly and respectfully.”
Homeowner questions citation timing, permit issue
The homeowner also questioned the timing of citations issued after the event.
According to the statement, security personnel remained in contact with law enforcement throughout the evening and were repeatedly advised that the gathering did not violate applicable noise restrictions.
“As a result, I was surprised and disappointed when citations were issued two days later, after the event had become the subject of significant public attention and media coverage,” the homeowner said.
The statement further raised concerns about the city revisiting a home improvement permit issue dating back to 2024.
The homeowner said the matter had not previously appeared unresolved and questioned why it resurfaced shortly after the party generated widespread attention.
“I intend to work cooperatively with the City to understand and address any outstanding administrative requirements,” the statement said.
Racist comments, doxxing condemned
The homeowner also addressed social media reaction to the event, saying some criticism crossed into racist and dehumanizing language.
“Criticism of the event is fair,” the statement said. “Neighbors are entitled to their opinions, and I respect their right to express concerns. However, some comments have gone beyond criticism and have included racist language and dehumanizing descriptions of attendees.”
The statement also condemned the online sharing of personal information about family members, including names, addresses, and phone numbers, saying such actions create safety concerns.
The homeowner said individuals had also attempted to record activity in private areas of the property shielded from public view.
“Regardless of one’s views about the event, targeting family members and publishing personal information crosses a line,” the statement said.
Viral video moment draws response
One viral video from the party showed a woman dancing on top of a vehicle, prompting online criticism.
The homeowner acknowledged the incident reflected poor judgment but urged people to show grace.
“Many people have made mistakes or exercised poor judgment at one point or another,” the statement said. “Most are fortunate enough not to have those moments recorded, shared widely online, and broadcast across multiple news outlets.”
The homeowner said accountability and fairness should both be part of the ongoing conversation surrounding the event.
“I remain committed to addressing legitimate concerns about the event while also standing up for my family and ensuring that we are treated fairly throughout this process,” the statement said.
Birmingham officials continue to review the incident as discussions about short-term rental regulations and enforcement procedures remain ongoing. Police have said they are evaluating their response to the gathering and reviewing policies to prevent similar situations in the future.