I would think it should. I can see prolonged use of low octane fuel or high boost situations, but occasional accidental use of 87 octane should not grenade the motor. Something must have been wrong with that car or the gas. Knock sensors do work. Hear a ping, back the timing down and cut the boost. This is how my Volvo V70 works.
Pros: knock sensors do work
Cons: major difference in timing
Vehicle:
Volvo V70