On May 17, police officers in North Tonawanda embarked on a saturation patrol, unaware of the devastating events that would unfold later that evening. A fatal train crash occurred when a pickup truck became trapped on the tracks as the railroad gates closed. The incident claimed the lives of David McMinn, Olive Geldart, and 6-year-old Ra'Mari Geldart, serving as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by both motorists and law enforcement during traffic stops.
North Tonawanda Police Captain Rob Frank acknowledged that while the department does not have specific training for safely conducting saturation patrols, officers are trained to handle various situations encountered during such operations. Saturation patrols involve a large number of officers simultaneously patrolling a designated area, often in collaboration with other departments, with the aim of targeting specific crimes or issues.
On the night of the tragic incident, North Tonawanda officers were working in conjunction with the Lewiston and Lockport police departments, as well as the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, to locate individuals with outstanding warrants.
As the investigation into the crash is ongoing, Captain Frank could not provide extensive details about the events leading up to the collision. However, he confirmed that the Lewiston Police Department's canine unit, which had made a stop on the east side of the railroad tracks, was present on the road. Despite this, Fran said that McMinn, the pickup truck driver, had sufficient space to maneuver beyond the tracks.
John Bandler, a former New York State trooper and adjunct professor at John Jay College, emphasized that vehicle stops during saturation patrols and other unplanned locations can potentially create unsafe situations. Anita Butera, director of Canisius University's Criminal Justice program, echoed this sentiment, stating that law enforcement should anticipate unsafe conditions during operations like saturation patrols and checkpoints. She emphasized the importance of directing confused or impatient drivers to ensure their safety.
The primary concern, Butera emphasized, is to ensure the safety of all individuals involved. With saturation patrols and checkpoint operations, traffic congestion should be expected, and measures should be taken to mitigate any potential dangers.
The tragic train crash in North Tonawanda serves as a somber reminder of the risks inherent in traffic stops during saturation patrols. Law enforcement agencies must continue to prioritize safety and implement appropriate measures to protect both officers and motorists during these operations.