Tragic Accident Claims Life of Road Worker in Farmington Hills

Categories: National Construction NewsNews

A somber scene depicting the serious nature of construction site safety.

News Summary

A tragic accident at a construction site on Orchard Lake Road resulted in the death of a road worker and left two others injured. The incident involved a vehicle colliding with a road crew working outside their vehicle. Family members of the deceased have mourned their loss while authorities emphasize the importance of work zone safety. The ongoing investigation aims to determine the cause of the crash and support the workers’ families.

Farmington Hills, MI – A tragic accident at a construction site on Orchard Lake Road resulted in the death of an Oakland County road worker and left two others injured on July 23, 2025. The incident occurred around 11 a.m. when a road crew was working in the northbound lanes.

While performing basin work outside their vehicle, a road crew consisting of three members was struck by a silver Ford Escape traveling southbound. The vehicle crossed the median and collided with the crew. The deceased worker has been identified as Cedric Jones, a 43-year-old father of six. Family members confirmed his identity, highlighting the significant loss to their family.

Jones died at the scene of the accident, and the two other crew members suffered life-threatening injuries and were taken to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the Ford Escape was also hospitalized, although their condition remains undisclosed.

In the aftermath of the incident, Orchard Lake Road was closed between 10 Mile and 11 Mile roads as the crash investigation took place. Farmington Hills Police Chief John Piggott expressed condolences to both Jones’s family and the injured crew members, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. The Traffic Safety Section is currently investigating the factors that contributed to the crash, reminding drivers to exercise caution near construction zones.

The Road Commission for Oakland County is focusing on supporting the families of the affected workers. Managing Director Dennis Kolar underlined the ongoing risks that road workers face daily, despite existing safety measures. Kolar stated that while proper signage and emergency lights were in place at the time of the incident, it is crucial for the community to recognize and respect the dangers present in work zones.

Michigan law has established penalties for causing injury or death in a work zone, which can include fines and jail time. This incident takes place in the context of heightened awareness around work zone safety, especially following a separate fatal accident on June 30, when another road worker was killed by an excavator bucket in Brighton Township.

Family members of Cedric Jones have expressed their deep sorrow over the loss and are advocating for increased awareness and vigilance among drivers when passing construction sites. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the incident to reach out to the Farmington Hills Police Department at 248-871-2610.

The tragic passing of Cedric Jones highlights the importance of road worker safety and the essential need for caution in construction zones. The ongoing investigation and support for those affected remain top priorities for local authorities and the community.