Road Commission Mourns Loss of Cedric Jones, 43, Killed in Tragic Work Zone Accident
FARMINGTON HILLS, MI — The Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC) is grieving the heartbreaking and untimely loss of Cedric Jones, a devoted employee and cherished member of their workforce, who was tragically killed in a work zone accident on Orchard Lake Road near 10 Mile Road on July 23, 2025.
Cedric, 43, of Detroit, was a seasoned crew member and the proud father of six children. He was known not only for his strong work ethic and dedication to the safety and improvement of Oakland County’s roads but also for his warmth, humility, and the deep love he had for his family. His death has shaken his colleagues, community members, and loved ones, all of whom are struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of a man who gave so much in life—and was taken far too soon.
On that tragic Wednesday morning, Cedric was working as part of a three-person crew performing routine drainage basin repairs—crucial work that keeps roadways safe and functioning for the thousands of vehicles that use them every day. Without warning, a southbound driver crossed the center median and struck the workers in the active construction zone. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but despite life-saving efforts, Cedric did not survive his injuries. Two of his coworkers were also injured, and the driver involved is now the subject of an active investigation.
RCOC Managing Director Dennis Kolar expressed the organization’s deep sorrow in a public statement:
“Cedric was more than just a valued employee—he was part of our family. He worked hard, cared deeply about his team, and helped ensure that roads in our county were safer for all. His loss is devastating, and our hearts are with his family and coworkers during this time.”
Cedric’s death is not only a personal tragedy but also a stark reminder of the dangers faced daily by road maintenance and construction workers. Despite high-visibility gear, signage, and protective measures, workers like Cedric remain vulnerable to speeding or inattentive drivers. This incident has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of work zone safety laws and greater public awareness.
Outside of his professional life, Cedric was a father first. He worked tirelessly to provide for his six children and was known for being a gentle, loving, and supportive presence in their lives. Friends describe him as someone who always had a joke ready to lighten the mood, a helping hand for anyone in need, and a dedication to his family that never wavered.
A candlelight vigil has been organized by coworkers and community members to honor Cedric’s life and service. Plans are also underway to establish a memorial at the site of the accident and a fund to support his children in the difficult times ahead.
As investigations continue into the circumstances of the crash, RCOC and local officials are urging drivers to slow down and stay alert—especially in work zones. “This was a preventable tragedy,” one official said. “Lives like Cedric’s should never be lost while trying to make our roads safer.”
Cedric Jones’s legacy will live on—not only in the infrastructure he helped maintain but in the lives of his children, the memories shared by those who knew and loved him, and the message his story sends about the value of human life in work zones. His service, his kindness, and his fatherly devotion will not be forgotten.