ANGLETON, TX (05/01/2016) — Coach Richard Jones was killed in a wrong way wreck that also left his wife and son injured on Sunday.
Authorities have identified 38-year-old Richard “Ricky” Jones as the victim of a fatal wrong way accident that occurred Highway 35 between Angleton and Danbury, Texas.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reported that at around 2:20 p.m., a 40-year-old male driver crossed the center line and struck Jones’ vehicle head-on as he and his family were returning home from a basketball tournament.
Jones, who was a beloved baseball and basketball coach, died in the accident.
“Mr. Jones was doing everything he needed to do in the vehicle,” DPS Trooper Stephen Woodard said. “Him and his family were buckled up and driving at a moderate speed.”
The two other occupants of the vehicle, Richard’s 35-year-old wife Marissa Jones, and his 16-year-old son, were both transported to Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, Texas. They have since been treated and released.
“It’s devastating,” said Vincent Strother, a friend of Jones for three decades. “It’s something that was completely unexpected. It’s something that’s going to take a while to get a grasp on.”
The DPS is investigating this accident. They are currently awaiting toxicology results.
Commentary
As we await toxicology reports, we would like to extend our condolences to those affected by this tragic loss. This accident has been devastating not only to the victim’s family, but also to many in the community.
While the at-fault driver appears to have acted negligently, he or she may also face charges of intoxication manslaughter and intoxication assault if found to have been intoxicated at the time of the crash.
