Family of woman who died handcuffed in back of police car after officer drove into river sues for $10 million

The family of a woman who died handcuffed in the back of a police car after the arresting officer drove into a river is suing for $10 million.

Tabitha Smith tragically died last month after Deputy Robert Leonard arrested her, but then took a wrong turn and crashed his vehicle into a river.

In the tragic ordeal on February 14, Leonard accidentally drove the car into the Hiwassee River, Tennessee.

Both Smith, 35, and Leonard, also 35, lost their lives in the ordeal.

Following Smith's passing, her son, Nathan Smith, has filed a lawsuit on her behalf.

He is suing Meigs County for $10 million in damages for the wrongful death of his mom.

As per the suit, its claimed that Leonard 'was not properly trained by the County to know his assigned area of patrol and know the nature of the incident location'.

The late police officer had only passed his training two months prior to the accident.

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It adds that Leonard 'was not properly trained or supervised by the County to refrain from the use of his cell phone while transporting an arrestee in a patrol vehicle'.

Leonard had texted his wife shortly before the crash.

As well as wrongful death, the lawsuit claims deprivation of liberty interest and bodily integrity, battery and assault claims, intentional infliction of emotional distress, gross negligence, loss of consortium and two violations of Tennessee code.

Meigs County declined to comment when contacted by UNILAD.

Smith's friends have paid tribute to her in the wake of her unexpected passing.

Sheena Mchome penned: "[Tabitha] was a happy person, outgoing, she loved life.

“I could not imagine being trapped and knowing my life was going to end."

Friend Emilie Neusel also paid tribute to Tabitha, saying: "She had a heart of gold, and despite any struggles and troubles she had, she was a great person."

Elsewhere, Leonard's wife described herself as an 'absolute wreck' after his death.

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He's survived by his spouse and their five kids. meigs

"Our lives are forever changed. Please just keep praying," she wrote on social media.

"Pray harder than you ever have before. My heart is breaking for my kids, and I am just an absolute wreck. I will start reaching out when I can pull it together.

"For now, all I can do is cry. We love you forever RJ. 17 years isn't long enough with you."

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact The Compassionate Friends on (877) 969-0010.