Too much hyperbole. The timing chain didn't wipe out a $10,000 car. At worst, you're looking at a thousand or two for an engine replacement. Timing chains have published lifespan. It was incumbent on you to do due diligence to tell if it needed replacement. If you had a warranty, it MIGHT have covered it but probably not. Most used cars are sold as is.
Well, it might, depending on other factors.
That said, my car lost its first timing chain on I-95. The engine didn't need to be replaced.
I do agree that OP is out of luck, unless there was an extended warranty that covered it, or the failure is due to some defect that is part of a recall. And even then, sometimes the recall happens after you've had the problem repaired.
The thing is, the lifespan is based on averages (bathtub curve). Some will fail early, others later. There is no guarantee which one your car will be.