FRESNO, CA — In a tragic incident, Fresno County Superior Court Judge Heather Mardel Jones sentenced Joy Frances Collins, 49, to six years in prison for child abuse and endangerment resulting in the death of her 8-year-old daughter, Joyanna Harris. Collins, expressing remorse in court, stated her wish to reverse the events of the day.
The incident occurred on December 17, 2018, when Collins led her son and daughter under a momentarily stationary freight train to catch a city bus. This was not the first instance of such an action, as Collins admitted to leading her children under trains on seven prior occasions.
This time, however, her daughter, Joyanna, initially hesitant, attempted to follow and became lodged under the train. The train, a mile-long freight vehicle, began moving, tragically dragging Joyanna for about 500 feet before Collins could pull her out.
Judge Jones, in her ruling, acknowledged Collins’ remorse but emphasized her responsibility in the tragic outcome. The judge expressed skepticism about Collins’ perception of the event, viewing it as an attempt to downplay her responsibility rather than a mere accident.
This case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the grave consequences of risky decisions and the paramount importance of child safety. Collins had sought a probation sentence but was instead given a prison term, reflecting the severity of the incident and its heartbreaking aftermath.