Family Doctor Says Train Victims Were Law-Abiding

In his later years, Antonio Juan Pina, 79, never lost his charm and thoughtfulness, even when his body and his mind faltered.

Pina would visit his ailing wife in a convalescent home each and every day, according to his friend and longtime family doctor, Elizabeth Remedios.

Recently, she said, he had begun using a cane to steady himself when the long treks by bus and foot became otherwise impossible. He had broken his hip, had a hearing disability and increasingly debilitating Alzheimer’s disease.

Most times, he would be accompanied by his daughter Maylem Blanca Villanueva, who feared for her father’s ability to fend for himself, and his 7-year-old granddaughter Francis. Too poor to buy a car, he had recently moved to a Glendale apartment next to that of his daughter so it would be easier for them to visit his wife.

Monday was to be an extra-special day: Not only was it Pina’s birthday, but the birthday of granddaughter Francis as well, Remedios said.

But on their way to the convalescent home, the three were struck and killed by a Metrolink train traveling 60 m.p.h. Authorities said they apparently were trying to save time and effort by cutting across the tracks.

But Pina, his daughter and granddaughter never would have crossed the tracks had there been warning signs telling them it was illegal, or fences, said Remedios.

“These people, they were so tired of walking, they took shortcuts,” said Remedios. “But how do they know it is illegal? There is no sign posted, they do not speak English and they are from a different culture.”

Pina had come to the United States from Cuba, where people frequently cross train tracks, she said.

“Had there been a sign, they never would have crossed. And this never would have happened,” Remedios said. “These are law-abiding people.”

Remedios said she was upset by comments by Metrolink officials, who portrayed Pina and his family members as scofflaws trespassing on private property, where warning signs are not needed.

“This is a stab in my heart,” she said. “I loved these people.”