A woman of 74 years lost her life tragically after being shoved into the way of an oncoming Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) train in the Powell Street Station in San Francisco, California. The suspect, known as Trevor Belmont or Hoak Taing, a 49-year-old transient, was taken into custody promptly by the BART police.
The deceased, Corazon Dandan, a resident of San Mateo County, was awaiting a train bound for Millbrae when the incident took place around 11:05 p.m. on Monday, July 1, 2024.
As per BART police, Belmont is alleged to have pushed Dandan as the train neared, causing her to strike her head against the train and then fall on the platform. She was rushed to San Francisco General Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.
The act was deliberate, according to BART Police Chief Kevin Franklin. “We believe the suspect intentionally pushed this person into that oncoming train, causing those serious injuries,” he stated.
Dandan’s sudden passing has caused deep sorrow among her family and coworkers. Remembered for her commitment and kindness, she was employed as a telephone operator at the Parc 55 Hotel. Her nephew, Dr. Alvin Dandan, a physician based in St. Louis, acknowledged her altruism and support. “She just loved working and being around younger people,” said Alvin. “I wouldn’t be here, and many of my cousins wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for her. She put a lot of people through school.”
Belmont, who has had previous encounters with law enforcement but not for violent offenses, was detained on the platform shortly after the incident. He is currently held in San Francisco County Jail on homicide suspicion.
This unfortunate event marks the first homicide on the BART system in the current year. BART police are conducting an active investigation, interviewing potential witnesses, examining evidence, and reviewing surveillance footage to ascertain the motive behind the assault.
The incident has triggered discussions about the safety of public transport systems and the issues arising from the presence of individuals with severe mental health problems in these settings. Dandan is remembered by her family, friends, and colleagues as a generous and affectionate person who had a significant impact on their lives.
