Jury Awards $18.8M to Councilmember After Devastating Crash

BREAKING: A Monterey County jury has just awarded $18.8 million to former Providence, Rhode Island councilmember Helen Anthony after she suffered life-altering injuries in a 2023 crash involving a California State Parks volunteer. This landmark decision underscores the state’s liability in the negligence of training and supervising its volunteers.

The jury’s verdict, delivered on Wednesday, highlights the serious consequences of inadequate public safety measures at California’s state parks. Anthony was struck while walking in a marked crosswalk at the scenic Point Lobos State Natural Reserve on June 10, 2023, resulting in catastrophic injuries, including 20 broken ribs and a traumatic brain injury that will permanently impact her quality of life.

During the trial, attorney Roger Dreyer, representing Anthony, argued that the state cannot evade accountability by labeling individuals as volunteers. “This verdict makes clear that the State of California cannot escape responsibility by simply labeling someone a volunteer,” Dreyer stated. “Public safety inside our state parks matters to every Californian.”

The state contended that it should not be held liable since the driver was volunteering. However, evidence revealed that California had previously attempted to settle the case for $50,000, contradicting their claims of non-responsibility.

As a result of her injuries, Anthony officially resigned from her position on the Providence City Council on August 1, 2025, citing the need to focus on her recovery. In her resignation letter, she expressed gratitude for her constituents’ support over the years but acknowledged that her health issues impeded her ability to serve effectively.

“I’m proud to have served Ward 2 and the City of Providence,” Anthony wrote. “Unfortunately, the demands of those roles are hindering my ability to heal.”

The jury’s decision serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of ensuring safety protocols are followed, especially in public spaces. As this case continues to attract attention, many are left wondering what reforms may emerge from this tragic incident to prevent future occurrences.

Watch for potential reactions from California State Parks and further developments in this ongoing story as it unfolds.