I want to share an important update regarding a situation involving a former employee, April Flores, as it has significantly impacted my business, Barton Springs Nursery, and the well-being of our team.

Incident Overview

On Sunday, November 24th, 2024, April Flores, a former employee, came to the nursery uninvited. During our interaction on the nursery grounds, she appeared visibly upset and was accompanied by two unleashed dogs. She called out to me repeatedly, drawing attention from customers. While I asked her to remove the dogs, she later returned and initiated a conversation.

During this encounter, April alternated between crying and making incoherent statements that were distressing to those present. Although I attempted to end the conversation several times, she persisted, creating a scene that disrupted the atmosphere for staff and customers. She eventually left the nursery but remained in the parking lot for approximately 30 minutes before departing.

Later, I was informed by my General Manager that April had also upset another employee, sharing emotional details about her recent personal struggles, which included a court decision awarding custody of her child to the father. The GM described the situation as unsettling for both staff and customers.

Background

April worked at Barton Springs Nursery a couple of years ago. When she became pregnant, we made adjustments to accommodate her needs, moving her to a shop role when she said she could no longer work outside. Our team tried to support her as she navigated this challenging time.

More recently, April disclosed that she was staying with one of our employees. The day after her visit, I spoke with this employee to ensure that April would not return to the nursery, as her behavior during the visit had raised concerns for staff and customer safety.

Escalation

A week after her visit, a business partner from another company, shared alarming text messages she had received from April. These messages included threatening statements directed at me, such as, “I will take her down,” and “bury her.” Around the same time, April began posting repeatedly about me and the nursery on social media, tagging both me and the business in multiple stories with negative and false statements.

I also received direct text messages from April that included threats to harm me and my business, including phrases like “I am going to END YOU” and “I will end your entire life.” Additionally, one of our managers received a message from April stating that she intended to “burn the place.”

Current Concerns

April’s actions have caused significant concern for my personal safety, the well-being of my staff, and the integrity of my business. The police have been notified, and I am taking steps to ensure this matter is addressed appropriately.

I appreciate the support of our community as we navigate this challenging situation. My focus remains on protecting the safety and peace of everyone involved while continuing to operate our business in a positive and professional manner.