OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. – An Oakland County road worker was killed and two others were injured after being struck by a car at a construction zone in Farmington Hills on Wednesday.
The crash happened on Orchard Lake Road between 10 Mile and 11 Mile roads on July 23 at around 11:11 a.m.
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According to Farmington Hills police Chief John Piggott, a car was traveling southbound on Orchard Lake before crossing over the median and striking three road workers on northbound Orchard Lake.
Piggott stated that the road crew was parked legally and had proper signage in place for safety precautions while conducting sewer repairs in the area.
The police chief confirmed that one road worker was killed and two other workers were seriously injured.
The driver was also taken to a hospital. The extent of their injuries is unclear.
The family of the worker killed identified him as 43-year-old Cedric Jones.
The family of Jones gave the following statement to Local 4:
“Cedric was a God-fearing man, a husband, and a father. His infectious smile lit up every room he entered. His warmth created an instant sense of peace. While we know God makes no mistakes, his passing is something we just cannot fathom. Our family asks for prayers as we come to terms with this unimaginable tragedy.”
Family of Cedric Jones
“I’m just upset basically to even have to receive a phone call like this, because I never thought that this would happen to someone like this in my family,” said Tracie Love, a relative of Jones. “Take your time. Watch out for the construction workers. Life is too precious. A loved one is lost, not coming home to their family, to their children, not going to be able to work tomorrow.”
Police are still working to learn what caused the crash.
The roadway is shut down in both directions as crews investigate the scene.
Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact the Farmington Hills Police Department Command Desk at 248-871-2610.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to the family and loved ones of the deceased,” Piggott said. “We also extend our thoughts and prayers to the injured crew members and their families as they continue to receive medical attention, along with the entire Road Commission for Oakland County family affected by this tragic incident. Our Traffic Safety Section is actively investigating the factors that contributed to the crash.”
The Road Commission for Oakland County released the following statement:
“We are extremely saddened by the loss of one on our family members, and the injury of two others. Right now, our top priority is supporting these employees’ families. We also are seeking to help our other staff, and we will have professionals on site tomorrow to assist anyone struggling with this situation.
We are asking for privacy for the family of of late colleague and the two injured employees and their families as they navigate these challenging times. The two injured employees remain hospitalized.
This devastating event is a stark reminder of the importance of work zone safety. Despite our crew taking every precaution to secure the area, there are still risks every single day on the job. Today is a heartbreaking day for the families of our co-workers and for the entire RCOC family.
Kolar also thanked the Farmington Hills Police Department for its quick response and professional assistance at the scene. The Farmington Hills Police are continuing to investigate the incident.
RCOC Managing Director Dennis Kolar
You can watch the full press conference below: