A Colorado woman who was left handcuffed inside a police cruiser that was struck by a moving train has received an $8.5 million settlement, bringing closure to one of the most shocking cases of police negligence in recent memory. The horrifying 2022 incident, captured on dashcam video, sparked nationwide outrage after footage showed the woman trapped inside the vehicle moments before it was obliterated by a freight train.
The victim, identified as 20-year-old Yareni Rios-Gonzalez, had been detained by Platteville and Fort Lupton police officers after a reported road rage incident. During the arrest, officers parked the patrol car — with Rios-Gonzalez still handcuffed inside — directly on the railroad tracks near U.S. Highway 85. Minutes later, a train’s horn blared in the distance. Despite multiple warning signals and the unmistakable sound of the train approaching, no one moved the vehicle. The resulting collision was catastrophic.
Dashcam footage shows the terrifying sequence as officers realize the train is coming, shouting in panic before impact. The train slammed into the police cruiser at full speed, dragging it down the tracks. Against all odds, Rios-Gonzalez survived, but she suffered severe injuries, including a broken arm, fractured ribs, and a traumatic brain injury.
The $8.5 million settlement, announced by her attorneys this week, marks the end of a lengthy legal battle against the police departments involved. “This tragedy was entirely preventable,” her lawyer said in a statement. “Our client suffered unimaginable trauma because of the reckless and careless actions of those sworn to protect her. No amount of money can erase what she endured, but this settlement ensures accountability.”
Following the crash, one of the officers was criminally charged with reckless endangerment and placed on administrative leave. The incident also triggered widespread criticism of police training and procedures. Experts say the case highlights a complete breakdown of basic safety protocol. “No officer should ever park on active tracks — it’s one of the first things law enforcement learns,” said a former police instructor.
Public outrage grew after the bodycam footage was released, showing Rios-Gonzalez screaming for help seconds before the collision. Many viewers were left stunned by the sheer negligence that led to the near-fatal crash. “She was literally trapped in a death trap,” one social media user commented. “It’s unbelievable that trained officers could make such a mistake.”
Since the incident, both police departments involved have revised their policies regarding traffic stops and detentions near train crossings. Officers now undergo mandatory retraining to prevent similar tragedies.
Rios-Gonzalez, who continues to recover from her injuries, has spoken publicly about her ordeal, saying she’s grateful to be alive and hopes her case serves as a warning. “I want people to know what happened so it never happens again,” she said.
The settlement, while substantial, represents more than financial compensation — it stands as a symbol of accountability in a case that exposed shocking lapses in judgment. For many, it’s a reminder that trust in law enforcement must be earned — and protected lives should never be put on the tracks.
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