SAN FRANCISCO — A lawsuit against Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) is advancing following the tragic death of a woman who was fatally pushed onto the tracks of an oncoming train a year ago. The incident, which has raised significant concerns about platform safety, occurred in July 2023 at the Powell Street Station.
Corazon Dandan, 74, was on her way home after completing a night shift as a telephone operator at the Hilton’s Parc 55 Hotel in Union Square when the alleged attack took place. According to prosecutors, she was pushed by 49-year-old Trevor Belmont, reportedly causing her to collide with the train before she fell back onto the platform.
Belmont, who had a history of prior arrests including fare evasion, has been charged with murder with the additional factor of lying in wait. Law enforcement has not disclosed a motive for this violent incident, which underscores deep-seated concerns over passenger safety in the transit system. Over the past two decades, Belmont has faced arrest 27 times in the Bay Area.
Following Dandan’s death, her family initiated a wrongful death lawsuit against BART, asserting the transit agency failed to ensure adequate safety measures for its riders. The lawsuit claims, “These failures in safety are a longstanding issue. BART has repeatedly failed to make its stations safe for its riders, whether through increased safety staffing or physical security features.”
Dandan’s family, devastated by the loss, believes such a tragedy should have been preventable. Her nephew, Dr. Alvin Dandan, conveyed their sentiment, stating, “Something’s got to change. I wish that my aunt’s death not be in vain. I wish that we can rebuild this city to what it once was.”
As the lawsuit progresses, BART has yet to publicly respond to inquiries regarding the claims brought forth by Dandan’s family. The case has drawn attention to the broader implications of safety and security within public transit systems, emphasizing the urgent need for improvements.
The family’s resolve to pursue justice may resonate with many who advocate for safer public transport environments, further igniting conversations about systemic changes needed to protect riders across the region.
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