News Summary
A construction site accident on Orchard Lake Road took the life of an Oakland County road worker and left two others critically injured. A vehicle struck the road crew while they were working, prompting an investigation by the Farmington Hills Police. Family and community leaders are advocating for greater awareness of safety in work zones following this tragic incident.
Farmington Hills
On July 23, 2025, a tragic accident at a construction site on Orchard Lake Road claimed the life of an Oakland County road worker and left two others critically injured. The incident took place around 11 a.m. when a vehicle struck the three-person road crew while they were engaged in basin work in the northbound lanes of the road.
According to the police report, a southbound silver Ford Escape crossed the median and collided with the crew. Cedric Jones, a 43-year-old father of six, was identified as the deceased worker. Family members and his church pastor confirmed his death, which occurred at the scene of the accident. The other two crew members suffered life-threatening injuries and were transported to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the Ford Escape was also hospitalized, but their condition has not been disclosed.
The investigation into the incident necessitated the closure of Orchard Lake Road between 10 Mile and 11 Mile roads. Farmington Hills Police Chief John Piggott expressed condolences to Jones’s family and emphasized the tragic nature of the accident. The police Traffic Safety Section is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash and has urged drivers to exercise caution in construction zones.
In light of the incident, the Road Commission for Oakland County is focusing on providing support to the affected workers’ families, highlighting the critical need for safety in work zones. Managing Director Dennis Kolar pointed out that road workers face daily risks, despite efforts to maintain safety protocols such as proper signage and emergency lights.
Michigan law imposes strict penalties for causing injury or death in work zones, which can include jail time and heavy fines. The director confirmed that the road crew was following all safety protocols at the time of the accident. This tragic occurrence comes less than a month after another fatal work zone accident on June 30, where a road worker was killed by an excavator bucket in Brighton Township.
The family of Cedric Jones expressed deep grief over their loss, urging for increased awareness and caution around construction workers. Authorities are appealing to anyone who may have information regarding the incident to reach out to the Farmington Hills Police Department at 248-871-2610.
This incident emphasizes the vulnerabilities faced by construction workers in roadside environments and the essential role that public awareness plays in upholding safety standards. As investigations continue, the community reflects on the need for vigilance and respect in areas designated for road work.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Trench Collapse Claims Life of Construction Worker in Maryland
Tragic Trench Collapse Claims Construction Worker’s Life
Pedestrian Fatalities and Legal Implications in San Antonio
Drunk Driver Arrested for Crash in Construction Zone
Congressman Reports Road Rage Incident Involving Physician
Multiple Injuries Reported in Head-On Collision in Vacaville
Construction Workers Injured in Elkhart Accident
Two Construction Workers Injured in Elkhart Traffic Incident
Farmhand Secures $1.2 Million Settlement in Legal Battle
Construction Begins at Clift Farm Intersection for Safety Improvements
Additional Resources
- CBS News
- Wikipedia: Construction Zone
- ClickOnDetroit
- Google Search: Safety in Construction Zones
- Free Press
- Google Scholar: Construction Worker Safety
- Fox 2 Detroit
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction Safety
Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER
CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.
