SHERMAN -- A single-vehicle crash on Thursday claimed the life of 22-year-old John David Cox of Denison, and Sherman police jailed James Edward Cornelious, 46, of Waldo, Ark., on a charge of criminally negligent homicide because police say his actions caused the death of Mr. Cox.
The wreck happened about 11:20 a.m. on northbound U.S. Highway 75 near the Pecan Street on-ramp near Piner Middle School. Sherman police Sgt. Bruce Dawsey said one witness was directly behind the motorcycle and stopped to give aid. From her statement and the statements of other witnesses, police believe Mr. Cox was riding his motorcycle northbound in the left lane and the tractor-trailer, driven by Cornelious, was in the right lane beside the motorcycle, also traveling north. As it neared the on-ramp, the tractor-trailer moved into the left lane to allow oncoming traffic to merge onto the highway.
Mr. Cox moved his motorcycle to the left to avoid the tractor-trailer, and hit the metal guardrail. The impact threw him off the motorcycle. A justice of the peace pronounced him dead at the scene.
Dawsey said the truck never struck the motorcycle and that the driver stopped and stayed at the scene.
Comments ... 112 found!
: 9/2/2009
To Gene....it doesn't matter if there is a "Yield Sign" or not, when a driver is merging onto another lane such as 75 they are to "YIELD" but it seems that most drivers don't know the meaning of the word. The worse intersection in Sherman is the 82/75 intersection by Walmart. People don't yield to traffic coming off of 75. That is trouble waiting to happen & I avoid that area if possible. The accident was nothing but an accident. We may never know what really happened. Was the motorcycle in the truck drivers blind spot, most likely it was. How many times have you almost pulled out in front of a motorcycle? We are not trained to watch for them. I'm praying for both families. God Bless.
Tasha
memories : 9/1/2009
When Dennis Erving was killed on Hwy 56 east, he was riding on a motorcycle, another man was passing in a no passing lane and they hit... The actions of this man took the life of my husband. But he wasn't charged with negligent vehicular homicide. Charging him with anything wouldn't change anything. The same is true in this case.It's not going to give the family any comfort to know that because of this terrible accident another person may go to jail/prison. This is just another TERRIBLE ACCIDENT. Just pray for both families that are going thru this time in their lives. I pray they all find peace...
Cheryl
just my opinion : 8/31/2009
This is a horrible accident! But it is AN ACCIDENT... I don't understand how the truck driver should be at fault for this. Nor do I believe it was John's fault, or the merging car's fault. Accidents happen everyday and often, no one is at fault. We all learn when we first started driving to stay out of truck driver's blind spots. We (at least here in Texas) learned about being courteous to merging traffic. I commend the trucker for being courteous as many truckers these days think they own the road, are rude, and will run you over if you don't move. I'm not saying John "sat" in the blind spot, or that the trucker may have jerked the wheel to quickly change lanes, i wasn't there. I'm merely saying it is tragic enough that one man's life was taken, it is pointless to take another's life. I can't imagine what this gentleman is thinking right now sitting in our jail, far from home and his family, praying to God for understanding and asking himself "how this could have happened" That onramp should have been closed off a long time ago. There is no emergency shoulder over the bridge and surely it can't be safe to stop on top of the onramp. The sure had the money to move the onramp/offramps around at town center! That ramp should be closed and just have the offramp there and the onramp just before Travis street can be used and would be much more safer. Mr. Cox, I am truly sorry for your loss and I pray that God gives you and your family strength, understanding, and more love than you can handle in this sad time. I also pray that this trucker remains strong and forgives those who are chastising him right now. The Bible says to forgive others else we cannot be forgiven. If EVERYONE would have been a bit more careful that day, this all could have been avoided.
Sad in Sherman
fault : 8/31/2009
bones--I have to politely disagree with you. The fault lies with the white car entering the hwy from the on ramp who did not yield to the truck therefore forcing the trucker to change lanes in order to avoid hitting that car. Unfortunately, the trucker did not see the bike which resulted in disastrous consequences. This happens all to often these days since drivers entering the highways seem to not care or do not know they are supposed to yield---not the oncoming traffic. I understand your frustration as a biker. I lost my cousin, who was on his hog, stopped at a red lite to turn left, when an elderly man came speeding over a hill behind my cousin, and upon realizing that he was not going to be able to stop before rearending a car in front of him, swerved into my cousins lane and killed him. The elderly man didnt see my cousin until it was too late. I only wish there were something that could be done to make bikes more visible since the reasoning for most bike/vehicle accidents appears to be "I just didnt see him". My continued condolences to the family of this fine young man. May God hold you in His strength and peace.
concerned
Wreck : 8/30/2009
1st this is all fault of the truck driver! He did not have to hit the kid on the bike to force him into the hand-rail! It was hit the Truck or hit the Hand-rail that was his only 2 choices neither of which were good. Others commenting on here say it the fault of the State of Texas D.O.T. or the fault of the On-Ramp....HOW??? It is NOT the responsibility of the driver on the highway to move over or to YEILD to the On-ramp ------The On-Ramp YEILDS to the Hi-way!! Therefore a young biker died because a truck driver changed lanes without looking when he DID NOT NEED to change lanes and DID NOT HAVE to change lanes!!!! His being courteous to a few cars KILLED this young Biker and changed the lives of his Family and friends forever! These are views from a 25 year Biker May God look look over You and Your Family and bring you peace and comfort God Bless..
crossbones
To Honda : 8/29/2009
Is there some reason why you felt the need to use the term Liberal when referring to complaints about the ramp being reopened after it was closed before? Why is it liberal when it is a negative situation? Funny place to talk about it but liberal is defined as progress or reform. As in that ramp needs to be reformed so we can progress with better traffic flow.
Always On The Watch
Strength : 8/29/2009
I have been on this blue spinning speckle in space for over 39 years now. And I have never in real life experienced real strength in a time of what some including my self would see as devastation. I have read the posts here from time to time in hopes of finding some speckle of closure to this wound in my heart and memory of John. Mr Cox. I admire your strength in this time. It can only be flowing from the veins of Faith and Love from loving a all powerful God. There are many things that you could be saying and doing in this situation. But you have chosen to grasp peace instead of anger. Love and understanding instead of bitterness. Amazing.... I wrote earlier of how I admired your son so much and how I would love for my sons to grow up with such resolve and substance. I can see now where the seeds of this have been planted and who is the planter. Once again I am sorry for your loss. And I am happy that you have obtained the peace and strength in this moment. And GIGI I have no idea of what has befallen unto you for having witnessed such a moment in time. All I can say is that I am sure that whatever forces both good and bad that were at work that day you and the truck driver were sparred from what could have been worse. Maybe it is a wake up call for all. Yes he could have done this and or that. We all look back at things differently on the second glance. When the first glance is the most important. We are all in a race with a force that does not slow down for anyone and anything. TIME... John was in life a wonderful young man I once new and cared for. And he will forever be that same person in my memory from this day on. I am happy to see that he was loved and despite what else is posted on this site or anywhere else. I can see that his family and friends who where closer than I to him will make it thru this and our friends' life will have made a difference of change and perception and if not for anything else cause us today to cherish each other a little more. And focus more on what we usually take for granted daily. Continue to be blessed and strong as you already are.. Cox Family
James Cross
smoke and mirrors : 8/27/2009
By putting the focus on the truck driver the negligence, and thus culpability of the city officials who should have taken corrective action is shifted. Thats the way the City of Sherman works, elected officials,etc covering for the wrongdoing of each other. You will never see the complaints that have already been made about that intersection. Good ole Sherman and the good ole boys.
smoke and mirrors
The Wrong Thing To Do : 8/27/2009
I knew Mr. Cox from Circuit City (not very well but I knew who he was and talked to him a few times). He was a class act and I am deeply saddened by this accident. I pray for his family through this trying time. I also feel for the truck driver. Arresting him and charging him with criminally negligent homicide for an accident was just flat out wrong on the part of the Sherman PD. I think this was very cruel and inhumane. I simply cannot imagine the horror I would feel after causing a fatal accident like this, only to have the police throw the cuffs on and arrest me for murder. Totally classless Sherman PD!! You could have investigated and arrested/charged him later if you found a valid reason to do so.
Karl
Root Cause Analysis : 8/26/2009
My understanding..... semi-driver moved as a courtesy to an oncoming vehicle merging into traffic that did not yield right-of-way. Semi-driver did not see the motorcycle rider in the left lane.... hence motorcycle rider tried to compensate for reduced lane and struck guard rail. Semi-driver pulls over to the side of highway and doesn't leave scene of accident ( I know... I saw the rig there) Semi-driver was booked for "illegible lane change" and negligence. My question... root cause was the "failure to yield right-of-way" by oncoming vehicle from the on-ramp. Where did this driver go and what charges will be levied against them?? Prayers and thoughtful condolences to the families of Mr. Cox and the semi-driver.
Thoughtful
jdcox e-mail : 8/26/2009
To those wishing to write to John Davids family. After receiving several heartfelt condolences from friends and family, I would like to extend anyone who would like to write about John please do so. The stories we are reading about him are very comforting. It is nice to hear from people we never knew he had a friendship with. Please no advocates for road restructuring or helmet law should or shouldn'ts. We will deal with those issues in other ways, please not here. Thank you all once again. Loving Memory of John David
Ronny
Mr. Briscoe : 8/25/2009
I remember you as if we had just met yesterday. You and your brother are such believers in Christ that both of you are unforgettable. Thank you for all the prayers. They are working. I, my wife, and sons get better each day. Thanks again and God Bless. To all the other readers we neither know nor have met, thank you for your prayers also. Although you might have never known John David, through his death many are turning to the Lord and beginning to pray again. Lets not forget to continue talking with God even after this event has become an after thought. Hoping to see all of you in Heaven. Please remember to hug each other daily and tell each other how much they are loved. Smile constantly and wave at someone you don't know, it does become contagious. God bless you all and keep you safe.
Mr. Ronny Cox
Kelly/GiGi : 8/25/2009
Yes this is Mr. Cox. My family and my sons fiance would love to meet with your family. I called the Criminal D.A.s office and spoke with one of their agents. We can set up contact through them or i have set up an e-mail account at jdcox70@yahoo.com. i will check it everyday until we meet then will never use it again. either way would just like to meet.Bless you all. Thank you
Ronny
John David Cox : 8/25/2009
The City of Sherman and TXDOT both are aware of how dangerous this ramp is but in their infinate wisdom have decided to do nothing. Because of funding they can't fix it and because of public outcry for the inconvenience of going futher down the road to the next access ramp they won't close it. If someone were to ask the Cox family and friends, they would respond with no cost was too great nor any inconvenience to much if it would bring back their beloved son and friend. To the City of Sherman and TXDOT. How many injuries to travelers have to suffer? How many deaths will loved one have to mourn before action is taken to remedy this situation? In my opinion, one is one too many.
Alway Avoid this ramp
Tragedy : 8/25/2009
I personally knew John and his family. My heart still goes out to them. Like another poster has already said, you knew one, you knew them all and they were all such wonderful people. Lots of things could have gone differently that day. If the truck driver had slowed down instead of moving over. If John would have trailed the semi instead of move along side of it. If no one had not tried to merge right at that moment....lots of things could have been different. But they didn't and now for those who knew John, our world is a sadder place because John isn't in it. I firmly believe that if the access ramp was designed like the one one past Travis street, even with all of the events that are known to have taken place, this accident would not have happen. Please contact TXDOT. You can find a phone number and address in the phone book. They have a website that you can post a messsage. Please contact every elected city official. The information is right there on the city's website. Email family, friends, other concerned citizens to do the same. If nothing is done concerning this ramp, this will happen again. Maybe not tomorrow, next month, or even next year, but it will happen again. Next time it could possibly be you or one of your loved ones. Do something before it happens again.
CC
deadly highways in sherman : 8/25/2009
as i sit and read through all of these blogs my heart is breaking and i am in tears, this was no doubt a horrific tradgedy i have a 2yr old son and may they be 2 or 22 that is still a parents baby COX Family i am so sorry all i can do is pray for you...as for that young lady on the scene what u witnessed is life altering i pray for u also as gor the truck driver i pray for what u will live w/ for the rest of your life be it an accident or a preventable accident THE BOTTOM LINE SHERMAN IS SLOW DOWN I WOULD RATHER REACH MY DESTINATION 5 MINUTES LATE THAN NEVER I WAS THE VICTIM OF A DRUNK DRIVING ACCIDENT IN 1999 AND IT CHANGED MY LIFE AND ESPECIALLY THE WAY I DRIVE WE ALL KNOW HOW DANGEROUS THAT AREA IS AND ALL I CAN SAY IS SLOW DOWN BE CAUTIOUS AND REMEMBER EVERYBODY ON THE ROAD IS SOMEONE'S CHILD, WIFE, HUSBAND, MOMMY, DADDY, BROTHER, SISTER, ETC. A VEHICLE FROM A MORTORCYCLE TO AN 18 WHEELER IS A PIECE OF HEAVY MACHINERY THAT CAN IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE TAKE A LIFE AND DESTROY LIVES..PLEASE SLOW DOWN SHERMAN!
a concerned mother
Dangerous : 8/25/2009
Yes, truckers do need to slow down. I do realize they have a schedule to keep and their companies do pay more road taxes than the average driver, HOWEVER, the speed limit thru parts of 75 in Sherman is 60mph not 70mph and, if I recall correctly, was not there recently a law passed that 18 wheelers could only go max 60mph?? PassinU, there used to be yield signs on every on or off ramp, however, some years age the State of Texas in its infinite wisdom deemed it "too expensive" to install and maintain said signs. However, it is still taught in driving school and in the handbook as traffic law that anyone entering the highway MUST yield to oncoming traffic. This bit about moving over is simply a courtesy in order not to slow traffic. WELL---Perhaps slowing traffic is exactly what needs be done!
concerned
Speeders : 8/25/2009
Drove through that area today in the LEFT lane doing the speed limit and guess what? A SPEEDING trucker passes us on the right like there is no tomorrow. He blows by the on ramp and if there was a oncoming car, the truck would have swerved all over us in the left lane. Remember this when you are all wrapped up in your rat race and law-breaking egos: “Humans, despite our artistic pretensions, our sophistication and accomplishments, owe the fact of our existence to a six-inch layer of topsoil and the fact that it rains.”
Disgusted
Adjust your speed~! - TX DPS Handbook : 8/25/2009
ENTERING THE FREEWAY 1. You must yield the right-of-way to vehicles already on the freeway. 2. Enter the speed change lane, stay to the right, signal left, and when the way is clear increase your speed so you can merge with the flow of traffic. Adjust your speed to allow others to enter the freeway safely. • Good driving practices indicate that vehicles in any lane, except the right lane used for slower traffic, should be prepared to move to another lane to allow faster traffic to pass.
TA
the reason : 8/25/2009
The reason he is negligent is that he forced Mr Cox into the guard rail thus indirectly causing his death. This also reminds me of when the (new) US 75 ws being built and everyone had to take the Washington St exit and be forced through town, one pipe truck a week would roll. Bill Class of 86
HTE33
People : 8/25/2009
The problem is people come onto the road and think that they don't need to yeild and they do ,just cause your on the on ramp doesn't mean anybody has to move over and yeild,,Who forgot what drivers ED was all about,, prayers out to the riders family I lost my nephew a few months ago over the same issue
Jason
To Gene : 8/24/2009
"Around the local area, at least, I have NEVER seen a "YIELD" sign."...and you won't. That information is contained within chapter 9 of the Texas Driver's License Handbook. "Entering the Freeway. 1. You MUST yiled the right-of-way to vehicles already on the freeway". Whenever you renew your license you are in effect stating that you have read and understand the information contained within the guidelines under which you licensed privilege was given. Perhaps you and several others in this forum need to be retested...often.
PassinU OndaLeft
Highway 75 : 8/24/2009
Several comments mention the "Right of Way", and yielding to the existing traffic. Around the local area, at least, I have NEVER seen a "YIELD" sign. So, how is the person to know, who is trying to enter the flow of traffic. I have seen people enter from a ramp, who feel it is their "God Given" right to enter when and how slow to do so. They are the REAL culprits. Most seem oblivious to the other traffic around them.
Gene
Family of John David Cox : 8/24/2009
Staff in Lubbock, Texas trying to reach the Cox family. We worked with Rebecca in Labor and Delivery and the whole family is in our thoughts and prayers. This is a wonderful family and they deserve the love, prayers and support they are receiving.
L&D staff-CHS
The family : 8/24/2009
Ronnie, I am from the town your father ministered in.. Saw you in December at the game in the Dallas Area... I am very sorry for your loss... I will pray that God helps you find peace after this tragic loss... Someone will be forwarding you my contact info... Very best regards...
J Briscoe
: 8/24/2009
Mr. Cox, yes we are here and I see that my daughter-in-law sent you a message... Praying for all of you during these difficult time...
GIGI
New Jail : 8/24/2009
OK ON THE NEWS TXDOT CLAIM THAT EXPLANDING 75 IS IN THE "PLANS", BUT NOT ENOUGH MONEY IN THE BUDGET...THEN WHY BUILD A DAMN JAIL WHEN THIS IS A BIGGER ISSUE!!! PEOPLE BEING KILLED ON 75 OR A BIGGER JAIL....AND BY THE WAY IT'S ANOTHER RAMP JUST LIKE THIS ONE SOUTH 75 JUST PASS CENTER STREET NO ROOM TO GET ON HIGHWAY AND DRIVERS DO NOT GET OVER FOR YOU!!! MAY GOD BLESS BOTH FAMILY'S
DRIVER
dangerous : 8/24/2009
"The day before this wreck I was coming up that same ramp to get onto the hwy. There was a semi that was in the far lane and didnt even try to get over or slow down & almost pushed me into that very same guardrail." So sorry for the misunderstanding, ash, but your description made is sound like the truck didnt make any attempt to move over as you were getting on the hwy. I guess you meant that after you were on the truck came over on you to the right. However, the young man who was killed was in the far left lane and hit the guardrail on the left side. Irregardless, that ramp section IS very dangerous and EXTREME caution, or avoidance altogether, needs be observed.
concerned
: 8/24/2009
So not what I was saying. 1st of all.. I said he was in the FAR LANE which means he was in the left lane. I was getting on the highway by the on ramp. I was ALREADY on the HIGHWAY in the lane & the semi got over!!!! I WAS ALREADY ON THE ROAD when he tried to get over, so really he needed to look before he got over
ash
John David Cox : 8/24/2009
This message is to Ronny Cox: My name is Kelly, and I am the mother of the young lady who attempted to comfort your son on Thursday. From our own personal experience, I know that answers can be hard to come by in situations like this. I could provide some contact information if you and your family need to ask her anything at all. Although she doesn't completely understand why, she believes that God arranged in advance for her to be there at that moment in time. I pray that in the minutes, hours, days, weeks, months and years ahead God comforts you and that you and your family feel His presence more than ever before. I'm glad that in some small way, my baby girl reaching out to your boy in his last moments brings you some measure of comfort. Our family and many others are praying you guys through. May God bless you all!
Kelly
Electra-Hog & Jasper : 8/23/2009
I'm sorry. I didn't mean to give you the impression I was leaving it up to you to tell ALL the riders to keep it on two wheels. I was hoping you would care enough for your friends to explain the danger of the wheelie at 70 mph on the highway. Forget I was concerned for your friends. And Jasper . . . I never said it was a Harley that was doing the wheelie. I, myself, have never seen a Harley rider ride a wheelie (except in controlled situations i.e. stunt riders). But I have a sister-in-law that says her brother does it on occassion. It is MY opinion that most Harley Riders have more respect for their bikes than to take the risk. At least the ones I know do, and I know several.
Former rider
Solutions : 8/23/2009
Sounds like a lot of pent up frustations and a lot of good points made here too. Now stop talking and start doing. CALL Austin about hwy 75 and the on/off ramps. About 100-150 calls in a short period ought to get someone's attention. STOP moving over for the idiots that don't know what yield means. They will learn real fast that way. USE the left lane for passing only, afterall, it is the law. Start going the posted speed limit. if someone is impatient behind you, tough. They will have to slow down or pass you. KEEP yourself safe by staying out of blindspots. Every vehicle has them. Learn where they are and don't drive beside anything, especially at highway speeds.
liddy
Like a chess game : 8/23/2009
I hate to use this tragedy as an educational review for all drivers on the road today.....Folks, please practice the most basics.....Something I learned over forty years ago in Drivers Education.....ALWAYS LEAVE YOURSELF AN OUT!! For example, never drive into a situation where you have a semi on one side and a guard rail on the other. There simply are too many other things that can go wrong besides someone making a lane change...........Four wheelers and semi's, stop tailgating not only each other, but most especially my motorcycle.....I have only two narrow patches of rubber keeping me bonded to the road, compared to your four or more much wider patches.....I can likely out manuvery you in most cases, but I CAN NOT stop faster than you, regardless of what you think, so stop getting upset with me when I stretch the two second rule out to three seconds between me and the vehicle in front of me. Even more when it's a truck I can't see around.....For all you motocycle drivers out there, please learn to drive like you are a pawn in a chess game. You need to be thinking multiple moves ahead of the vehicles around you. Not being concerned about how, "COOL" you look. Constantly work through multiple accident avoidance scenarios in your head. I for example when passing a vehicle will focus hard on their steering tires. Even so much as a tiny bobble will cause me to execute one of these scenarios. My only prayer at this point being, some four wheeler, yapping on a cellphone, hasn't jumped on my tailgate out of nowhere to screw up my perfect escape plan.
Deepest Sympathies
Rider killed : 8/23/2009
I just read through the comments and am curious if he was wearing a helmet? Also, I am shocked that people so quickly think the truck driver shouldn't be charged with the crime. His actions killed a man. I would hope that if something like this happened to me while riding my bike that the truck driver causing it would be arrested. How the truck driver handles it from here decides his fate; at least he's still alive. To quickly say he shouldn't have been charged after a man is dead is disrespectful to this young man. Too all you young bike riders, learn to get uncomfortable when beside any car or truck. If you have to slow down or speed up to avoid riding beside one, do it. This guy didn't do anything wrong riding next to a truck but young riders need to remember that nobody ever sees us riders. My sympathies go out to this young mans family and friends.
Street Glide
Ramps at Piner : 8/23/2009
They are dangerous, especially during the school year. Very congested, and very dangerous. They should be closed or altered. They are backward, anyway, it seems. People getting off and moving over to get on and watch the highway traffic as well as all the school traffic to and from the school. All the 56 traffic coming thru to get on 75. Maybe if the turn to Piner was moved instead of being in the middle of the ramps, there wouldn't be so much to have to navigate? And lower the speed limit on 75 to 50 through that area, maybe? I try to avoid 75 from Center to Travis, and absolute stay away from the Piner service road area. That truck was going to hit a car or something else. What a tragedy.
Southern Grayson
Blind Spot : 8/23/2009
John was a very good friend of mine and I mourn his death. I agree with D. Logan that we should not judge or blame the truck driver. Not very long ago, I came very close to hitting a motorcyclist in my SUV. I checked my mirror, looked over my shoulder as always, merged into the lane, and never saw him there. Luckily he was able to move and I am not in jail now.
LL
My Prayers are with you : 8/23/2009
I too feel bad for the loss of a soul so young. We all have known that we are only here on borrowed time. I believe god has everyones path outlined,no matter who you try to blame it isn't right because at the end almighty God has the last say so.I pray that both families will come together in peace and forgiveness. That is what God does for us everyday that we sin.
Think before you act
to ash : 8/22/2009
"The day before this wreck I was coming up that same ramp to get onto the hwy. There was a semi that was in the far lane and didnt even try to get over or slow down & almost pushed me into that very same guardrail." Cars entering the highway are to yield to highway traffic. This exact situation is what caused the accident in the first place. The traffic entering the highway didn't yield to the truck already on the highway forcing him to make a decision to move over before he blasted the car into the guardrail.
sometimes you've gotta look at the other guy
RIP John : 8/22/2009
John was a awesome person. I worked with John at Circut City as well and I have nothing but great memories of him. Im sickened by the different rude comments on here about the accident. People need to stop writing false or negative things about John and the situation. The people that get on here and say different things about how he should have done this and shouldn't have done that SHOULD mind their own business. This horrible accident has already happened. There is no need for people to keep the negative comments going. To all of John's family and friends may you find peace in these hard times. He is in the arms of angels now. We will miss you, John... R.I.P
Elizabeth H.
Sad Situation!! : 8/22/2009
I am a truck driver and I've been through this stretch of 75 many times either in my semi or in my automobile. It seems that everyone is jumping to a conclusion. Yes the truck driver did make a mistake by changing lanes to an occupied lane. He obviously didn't see the gentleman on the bike. In truck driving school they teach you to stay in your lane. With that being said, people in North Texas Do Not Yield!!! We have some of the worst drivers in the country. Everyone speeds and switches lanes wothout singaling. The next time you get (MERGE) on any highway look before you get on and not after you are already on it. It's just a sad situation all the way around.
Learn to Merge Properly!!
Terrible loss : 8/22/2009
I met John a few years ago when I worked with a girl he was dating. He was a very nice, respectful young man. He barely knew me at the time but he still helped me when I needed it. This a horrible tragedy that could have been avoided...now I have to watch my friend & his family go through this all because someone didn't pay attention to what he was doing. I had the father of my son die due a motorcycle accident similar to this & its the hardest thing to go through. Now my son does not have a dad...John's family & friends lost their friend, son, brother etc. My heart goes out to everyone involved. Everyone needs to be more observant on the highway...not just truckers or motorcyclist but every person in every kind of vechicle....maybe one day the number of these senseless & preventable deaths will go down.
just plain sad
Additudes : 8/22/2009
I agree with TA,Sparetire, Ash, Betty and Kristi and the others who want TXDOT to change exits and road conditions. The truck driver was given a ticket for a reason. I will say it again...there needs to be more maindated laws for these trucking companies and when you actually think you own the road just because of what financial is paid then you really are the stupid idiot one for ever making this comment. Yes, I tell it like it is, if you don't like it, so be it. My father and uncle were diesel truck mechanics and drivers for years. I learned from the best. If living, they would tell you the same thing. Don't make me stupid here, I know what I am talking about. Yes, everyone has blind spots. I have been in trucks before, they are big rigs that care an extremely large amount of weight. I also support all police and sheriff departments. They know what they are talking about. You just need to wake up, TEXDOT needs to wake up and make some changes. I don't like to see these stories, its painful for everyone. Again, my heart and condolences go out to the Cox families. I do truly care.Mr Tragedy all around, you need to wake up, your thoughts have no real merit to me. Yes, I am a woman that drives like a man in this world.
I CARE
I am sorry : 8/22/2009
I meant Gigi's granddaughter in my previous statement. I pray that God gives you peace and strength through this time. I know when something like this happens it is easy to see all of the people standing around who seem to be uncaring. Please remember that people express their emotions in different ways and that while there are people in this world who care only for themselves, there are plenty of other people who are very caring and loving just like yourself. Sadly, we seem to remember the jerks instead. Please try to remember the nurse and all of the other people who were trying to help this young man instead of the people just standing by. They may have been in shock. I will keep you all in my prayers.
sad
I am sorry : 8/22/2009
I am sorry for the family of the young man on the motorcycle, the truck driver and his family, and all who witnessed the accident, especially GiGi. I hope God surrounds you all with his love. This dangerous stretch of highway needs to be fixed!
sad
wreck : 8/22/2009
I know that ramp well and it is a hazard! i will not allow my kids to use it but have trained them to go on down to the nest ramp which has its own "access" lane. My prayers to both families as, Im sure, the truck driver is destitute over this. However, homicide? I think not, negligence surely. BTW, Ash, if you were traveling up the ramp, merging onto the hwy YOU are supposed to yield! The trucker is not supposed to be forced to move over to accommodate you. That is exactly why these accidents happen because people who are coming onto the hwy do not obey the law and yield.
concerned
On ramp and drivers : 8/22/2009
There are two major reasons for this accident. Firstly, that particular on ramp is terrible. I pass it every day and I'm taking the very next exit for Travis Street so I'm always in the right hand lane. Secondly and most importantly, most people have no idea how to drive. When you're entering the highway you need to start looking for a place to enter before you get on the ramp and then speed up or slow down accordingly to merge with oncoming traffic. Most people don't even start to look until the second they are ready to merge and by that time it's too late. Slowing down on a highway is what causes accidents so speed up and merge with everyone else instead of cutting people off while you're doing 30mph and remember that you yield to the highway, not the other way around. There have been numerous times that I've almost put people into the railing at that very ramp because they don't understand how to properly merge with traffic. I'm not going to slam on my brakes and get hit from behind or crash into the person in the left lane just to allow you to enter the highway going 30mph. So pay attention, get prepared and enter the highway at speed or prepare to hit the guardrail because it's not worth it to risk my life of the life of people in the other lane because of your lack of driving proficiency. One last thing, never, ever spend your time driving beside or behind an 18 wheeler because doing so can be extremely dangerous. Not only from flying debris kicked up from their tires but from flying piece of rubber from a de-laminating retread and the fact that they have a much more limited visibility of surrounding traffic than a passenger vehicle. My thoughts go out to all of those involved.
Ponyboy
Terrible tradegy : 8/22/2009
To anyone of you who is quick to judge the truck driver, I would assume you have never used that entrance,or even drove by it! I cant tell you how many near accidents I have seen, it is absolutey a death trap, at no ones fault, except for the engineering of the ramp! I am outraged that some of you are quick to blame the truck driver! God bless the family of the young man, as well as the truck driver. How many more lives are we going to lose as a result of this area of 75? Will it be your child, wife, husband, grandchild, brother, sister or friend next?? Concerned citizens really need to address this situation to our local government!!!!
just me
No ones fault : 8/22/2009
I was there and saw it happen, Both drivers had other options but there was gonna be a wreck either way. The bike could had slowed down, but he would gotten hit from the back. The truck could have stayed in his lane, but he would has hit the white car trying to get on. The white car could have slowed down getting on, but she had two cars behind her, who were trying to get out of the way of the car getting off the hwy. The ROAD SUCKS!!!! Pray for ALL involved. The 1st reponders, the mowers, the cars who were stopped on the hwy stairing at the scene. Just pray!
lunch break
Semi's vs cars & motorcycles : 8/22/2009
Truck Drivers should be held to a Higher standard, When they receive a CDL they become a " Proffesional " Driver. It's sad about the 22 yr old and how this happened, No amount of disscussion and or changes to a highway will bring him back. Accidents happen, and I myself was a CDL Driver from 2002 until 2004, All I can say is my hat is off to these guys and the very tough job they perform every day. It's one job I would never do again. I even gave up my CDL License when I changed my address last summer. Yes Trucking Companies pay more for Tag's and everything they should !!! Your 80,000 Lb truck does more damage to our roads than any car or pickup could ever do. Try going down hwy 121 in Melissa and the the rug board roads before each red light and having to scoot over to avoid your pickup bouncing sideways because of it. Wasn't a passenger vehicle that did that damage it was the constant flow of Rock trucks and Garbage trucks traveling that road every day. I know the hazards of trucking and I also know how easy it is " Not " to see a motorcycle sometimes, even with the Headlight on , people just dont look for them. They look for larger vehicles with a broader view because of larger bodied vehicles, no it isnt right but I can bet that if people were Honest , they would say at least once they have pulled out in front or nearly did a motorcycle. My Condolences to the Family of the 22yr old , I hate something like this the worst way in the world. But for Truckers to come on here and use this subject as a justification for plowing over a kid on a Motorcycle is totally absurd. I know you have a tough job , heck I have done it. But please people let's not use this as a "whipping" Subject " for frustration, just because we all have bones to pick in this world.
Doug
Excuses : 8/22/2009
What? Outdated Ramps? Updated Ramps? Are you kidding?.... This is just an excuse to compensate for inconsiderate drivers. Don't you realize that there could 30 lanes of traffic each direction and an 'on ramp' that is faultless, But if we don't get past our rat race and self ambitions, that 60 lane highway will always be the blame!.
Sherman
accident : 8/22/2009
I have a class A cdl lic, and I know how people feel about being behind a tractor-trailor. They don't want to be there! I know how most motorcycle drivers feel on the road... they want to be in front of everyone...as if to say.."look at me, I'm cool! Granted thats not the case here but with that general mentality there is a lower standard of reaction for everyone on the road when we are faced with these split second decisions that could turn out to be tragic. I believe this was an accident. I don't believe that the trucker was acting negligent. He was trying to avoid a wreck on his right but got tangled on the left. I guess you could say he was damned if he did and damed if he didn't.
Sherman TX
My Brother John : 8/22/2009
Ok so this is the second time in my 23 years alive that I have had to see one of my best friends... but more than that, my brother lose his life on a motorcycle because of a neglegent driver. Yes motorcycles are dangereous, but like any other vehicle they can be driven properly and safely. I am tired of hearing people try and place the blame on John, the motorcyclist, just because he was the driver of the bike. To those of you who think that the semi-driver did nothing wrong and didn't see John, think about any experience you have had with a trucker. How in the hell was John supposed to prevent this from happening. He was driving in the left lane being safe when the driver of the truck FAILED to properly merge into the left lane. I saw where somebody said that he merged into John's lane so fast in order to avoid slowing down traffic.....??? Really, maybe next time do what you are trained to do and check your mirrors before you SUDDENLY merge into the other lane and take an innocent life. I Loved John with all my heart as did my entire family. If you know the Cox family, then you know how absolutely devastated they are. I have never met another family who cares more about each other and the people around them than John's family. If you have ever met any of them, then I promise you have met them all. Even after all of this I know that his family won't hold the truck driver accountable. WOW, that takes more strength than most of us will ever have. So please just remember one thing before you write a comment on here. PEOPLE WHO LOVE AND CARE ABOUT JOHN AND HIS FAMILY WILL READ THIS ONE DAY SO PLEASE KEEP YOUR IMMATURE HATEFUL COMMENTS OFF OF HERE AND SAVE IT FOR THE PEOPLE WHO WANT TO REMEMBER HIM AS THE HANDSOME, CARING, AND OVERALL BEAUTIFUL PERSON HE WAS! John will always be my brother, my family and although you are no longer here on earth with us... you will most certainly always remain in our hearts and prayers. I'm still searching for a way to deal with this all, but I know in my heart that God has bigger and better plans for you. Thank you for always being there for my family, and know that all of us will see you again one day. God Bless John David Cox and God Bless the entire Cox family!
Joshua
John Cox : 8/22/2009
I too worked with him at circuit city. He was such a nice kid. He was the one who could ALWAYS make you feel better about whatever was going on in your life. He left behind so many friends, and family that will miss him so very much. I know I've talked to a few of the people we used to work with and it's like a nightmare that we can't wake up from. We didn't want to believe it and some of us still don't. His family and other friends are in our prayers. R.I.P. John, you'll never be forgotten, especially that wonderful smile of yours.
Ex- CoWorker
: 8/21/2009
I live within a mile of this area and have had Irate truck drivers fly up on me, while i'm doing the legal 60 mph, in the right hand lane,and try to run me off the road. can't remember the last time I saw one of these flying missles stopped by a cop. The truckers flying through this area will be at fault 99 times out of a hundred and law enforcement just turns a blind eye. excpect more of this. you can count on it.
future innocent fatality?
I'll miss you bro.... : 8/21/2009
I have known John David and his family for more years than I can remember. It seems like only yesterday when he was a little boy living in Lubbock. It had been some time that I had seen him until recently when I was fortunate to have seen him at his dad's graduation celebration in Denison. I could NOT believe how this little boy had transformed into this glowing, handsome man. It was good to see him, as well as his family and all of my best friends in this world. My heart and my love go out to Ronnie and Becky and the boys. You will be in my prayers and my heart. John David's loss will certainly be felt. A man of his caliber cannot be duplicated or replaced. I will miss him. Justin G, Plano, Tx "Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord; and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace." Amen
Justin G
Disrespectful : 8/21/2009
I am a biker and I was lucky enough to get to know John for about the last 4 months of his life. He was such a sweet, loving man. Shame on anyone that is using this terrible tragedy to prove a point. It was an accident. That is completely rude and disrespectful. Several people were wondering why the truck driver was charged with criminally negligant homocide. My prayers are going out to the family of Mr. Cornelius. While it was completely an accident, his actions did cost the life of John. They took away Ronnie and Beckie's "little boy". They did cost his child to grow up never meeting his/her father. His child will never know how noble their dad is for not letting the child's mom ride her motorcycle because she is pregnant. John was a brave, noble loving man, and I am sorry for John's family, Mr. Cornelius' family, and anyone who was never blessed by John's smiles, handshakes, or hugs. He was such a good man. Such a good man.
Heartbroken Friend
: 8/21/2009
We need to be careful before we judge this truck driver. We weren't there, and we should have learned by now that the whole story is seldom told by the media. I've almost run into CARS many times that were in my blind spot. I can't imagine driving a truck and having to not miss something as small as a motorcycle! How do we know that a CAR wasn't about to hit the truck while entering the highway? A lot of small things came together at once to make this tradgedy happen. How about we take care of the families instead of casting stones??
D. Logan
: 8/21/2009
I never had the chance to really get to know John very well but what I did of him he was a great guy and he was taken from this world way to early. Your gonna be missed so much. I still cant believe your gone.
R.I.P. John David Cox
The way it is folks, period! : 8/21/2009
It is the responsibility of the truck driver to check his lane and surroundings before executing a lane change period and obviously this truck driver did not so let him pay for this young mans death with his time. His responsibilities as a truck driver have absolutely nothing to do with the motorcycle rider not having on a helmet if the truck driver would have been doing his job correctly and looking into those big mirrors he is supposed to be using this young man would still be here folks. And to thoes who do not agree with this maybe you would if it were your son, think about it.
Citizen
wreck : 8/21/2009
God bless you and your emotions GiGi.
yadad
TIME TO CHANGE : 8/21/2009
To Shermanite, Yes the city of Sherman is responsible along with TXDOT. They do have SOME control over this highway, like SPEED LIMITS. And if every city official is not beating down the door of TXDOT and the State Highway Commission to get this situation changed, then they are negligent in their duties to the citizens of sherman and their obligations to every motorist traveling through their city. And you reader, if you do not petition TXDOT to correct this driving hazard, then you too or negligent in your obligations.
tellin it like it is
GiGi Are You There : 8/21/2009
My name is Ronny Cox and I am John Davids father. I was directed to this web site by his aunt, my sister. I cannot express the feelings i would like to convey to your granddaughter. I have asked several people including officers if my son died alone, no one had answers. My wife Rebecca is devastated because she knows he was crying out for his mother one last time and she wasn't there. I am truly relieved to be able to pass on to her that her "sweety" did not leave this world alone. He was being held with the love of a stranger. i want to thank you for being there for our son, his three brothers also thank you. My son is exactly the kind of person you witnessed in just those brief minutes. He was this kind of person his entire life. He gave without asking for anything in return. I am very relieved to know that even though God has taken this young man he has left a legacy of love with everyone who has ever come in conact with him. whether it was his 22 yrs of lifelong friendship or just that brief moment of a hand wave. His smile and attitudes are contagious.I can have some moments of understanding with God that God did not forsake me even though my son was taken way too early. we have been directed to take this path and know not where it leads, but please GIGI pass along our most thankful heartfelt love and appreciation to your granddaughter for being there when neither of us were there. I cannot even express our gratitude enough, words can and never will be enough to say thank you. May God bless you all and keep you safe. All my love to you from a grieving father.
John David I miss you already
why ask : 8/21/2009
To the family... sorry for your loss. If the driver of this semi would have looked properly at his mirrows he would have seen BOTH the BIKE and TRUCK were already in the inside lane!! When somebody on a motorcycle crashes its always taken to his fault. OK so this might happened to a car no big deal!! WHEN drivers are held responsible for there careless driving to BIKERS this will change.
2B6JY
DEVASTATED! : 8/21/2009
OMG! I knew john personally and it is just soo hard to believe that he is gone!! he was such a sweetheart a real definition of a good "MAN" I had never met anyone that was soo caring and respectible before I met him! My prayers go out him, family,his friends, and just anyone who knew him! Also, to all the people who were involved or saw the tragedy!!! God works in mysterious ways and this incident happened for a reason!! I LOVE YOU JOHN and I WILL MISS YOU ALWAYS!!!
Rosa G.
RIP John : 8/21/2009
John was a awesome person. I worked with John at Circut City as well and I have nothing but great memories of him. Im sickened by the different rude comments on here about the accident. People need to stop writing false or negative things about John and the situation. The people that get on here and say different things about how he should have done this and shouldn't have done that SHOULD mind their own business. This horrible accident has already happened. There is no need for people to keep the negative comments going. To all of John's family and friends may you find peace in these hard times. He is in the arms of angels now. We will miss you, John... R.I.P
Elizabeth H.
Tragedy : 8/21/2009
My prayers go out to both families. I know the Cox family, good people. I will be praying for you and your family, God is your strength ask him for it. The truck driver didn't see him, that is my opinion only. I don't have the answers, never will. God holds the future, we need to come together and pray for calmness and comfort. Something needs to be done about that part of HWY 75, too many accidents. TXDOT needs to fix this quickly.
concerned friend
Former rider : 8/21/2009
Well its nice of you to single me out and make me a Wheelie popping advocate for all of the crazies on two wheels but I think since your so bothered by it you would be better suited for the task of motorcycle reform. ONLY people who ride or have ridden a motorcycle will look real good for them because they understand what its like’ however the rest do not. My condolences to the Cox family for their loss, may the good lord be with you in your time of sorrow and loss, please try not to hold any animosity in your heart over the truck driver because he will stand at judgment before the lord one day, To forgive is to be set free.
Electra-Hog
Motorcycle wreck : 8/21/2009
Thoughts and Prayers for all involved, especially both Cox and Cornelious families. I'm sure Ed Cornelious is and will struggle with this from now on. Blame goes to too many, in no particular order because I wasn't there, but here goes. 1) all parties were no doubt speeding (I don't see anyone driving less than 70 on this road), 2) TxDot for allowing this poor design to stay in place, 3) Whomever established the speed limit should have lowered it to 50, 4) City of Sherman for not imposing the speed limit, 5) the car entering the highway (obviously didn't yield to main road), 6) motorcyclist put himself in a dangerous situation (blind spot of a big rig), 7) truck driver (speed and sudden lane change). I'm sure other reasons can be found. Now for solutions, let's focus this energy on a solution, A) Reduce Speed Limit, B) Inforce Speed Limit, C) change the design or traffic flow, D) Add electronic signs on both entrances to city stating "XXXX Citations issued for speed violation this week". Let's join together, it might be your son or daughter next week.
Steve
Bike fatality : 8/21/2009
I have a Class M license and have ridden motorcycles in the past, but I won't travel the highways. I'm also a retire trucker that has driven cross country and pulled all type of equipment. It honestly amazes me at the way truckers now days drive. It seems that back when I was on the road, the truckers were more safety minded. Some of them today don't even know of the courtesy signals from another driver such as flasing lights to signal them it's ok to change lanes. I am constantly being pushed into other lanes of traffic to avoid being hit by these new inexperienced drivers of today. I'm not saying this trucker was at fault, but many times I've observed the majority of trucks not looking before changing lanes. They also are bad about tailgating.
Sparetire
Semi's vs cars & motorcycles : 8/21/2009
This accident sure caused some interesting people to come out of the wood work. Mr. Jennings you made it sound like the truck driver ran the vehicle off the road on purpose with your "The wreck occurred when a tractor-trailer was moving from the right hand lane to the left and forced the motorcyclist off the road." Your reporting is incomplete. Mr. 'I Care' - You seem to have a vendeta against truck drivers no matter the circumstances. This is too bad because it is the mentality of people like you that cause many of the accidents that occur with trucks, by cutting them off thinking YOU own the road. In an emergency situation, like what appears to have happened, the driver moved over to avoid an accident coming at him from the right side. In all of this, there is no mention of what happened with the vehicle that was entering the highway - did they stop? Mr 'I Care' - you apparently aren't aware of all the taxes and licensing that trucks pay. You say "something needs to be done for the trucking companies to have their own scheduled transit route." I believe the truck drivers do own the roads based on the amount of money government is currently soaking the truck drivers through taxation, licensing fees, insurance, highway use tax (to mention a few).YOU are driving on their roads, not the other way around. You think your $50 license tab pays for these roads? Try paying $2000 just for the license tab. There are no other drivers that are regulated more than the truck drivers - not even cops. Cops can work double shifts, along with doctors, surgeons, and nurses. Not a problem for a cop to work 16 hours a day, even when he carries a gun with him and hasn't slept. Truck drivers are required to log every minute of every day of their life. It's called a log book. If it is off in any way, no matter how minor, the DOT grounds the driver for ten hours or takes them out of service. When they stop to go the bathroom, they are required to log the stop. When they are home for any amount of time, they have to log it. While they are off duty and maintaining their own trucks on their own property they are required to log it. While driving down the road, they can be pulled over by the DOT for no reason. What about the pick ups hauling hay with one lousey strap across the entire load and its over loaded? Are you aware that it's illegal to haul a load with only one strap for safety reasons? When was the last time a person driving with a 5th wheel camper behind it and towing a boat behind that was stopped and required to take a mandatory 10 hour break and to log when they stop to use the bathroom. Heck - they don't even require a CDL license for driving them. What happened is a terrible tragedy - but it was a tragedy for EVERYONE involved in it or saw it. Maybe there was good reason for the arrest and maybe not, however, it makes for a satisfying scapegoat for the 'Mr. I Care' people of the world.
Tragedy All Around
wreck : 8/21/2009
i am a professional driver that drives for a living.this is a terrible tragedy.My condolences to all involved.As is the case most of the time the guy with the cdl endorsement on his license is found at fault no matter the circumstances.We seem to be held to a lot higher standard than the average driver of a motorcycle or personal vehicle.I drive a 18 wheeler 400 miles a day and see all sorts daily that have no clue what damage can be done when a car or motocycle hits one of these.People seem to like to draft behind us.Stay on our blind side(passenger side)without a care in the world of what would happen if we have to make a sudden move due to something going on ahead of us.Their is a saying if you cant see our mirrors when behind us then we cant see you.
T.A.
: 8/21/2009
For all of you who say the City of Sherman needs to do something about this...this road is a STATE road and Sherman has ZERO control over it. This is a TxDOT problem. I personally have called TxDOT about this very on-ramp and its danger. I guess it takes someone dying for them to see the real problem. I don't understand the driver getting arrested for criminally negligent homicide. He simply didn't see the motorcycle. The State of Texas should bear some responsibility with this. I feel horrible for the young rider and his family. Everytime I see people on motorcycles, it literally scares me to death, especially those not wearing helmets. God Bless John David Cox and his family.
Shermanite
Almost Me : 8/21/2009
The day before this wreck I was coming up that same ramp to get onto the hwy. There was a semi that was in the far lane and didnt even try to get over or slow down & almost pushed me into that very same guardrail. I know that my life flashed before my eyes when this happened. I can only imagine what this young man was thinking as this was happening. Not only did this semi not try to get over but when he finally did see he tried to get over into the far lane almost ran ANOTHER car into that opposite guardrail. All I know is that the guys that are driving these semis know how dangerous they are when driving and start to pay more close attention to the vars getting onto the highways. My thoughts and prayers are with this young mans family & friends.
Ash
TX Highway To Blame : 8/21/2009
Anyone who has driven that stretch of highway knows what a dangerous on ramp it is. There's a narrow bridge right there forcing cars entering the ramp to merge immediately. If they slow down, they will have to stop and then never get on the highway. The people on the highway feel the need to get out of their way and make instant decisions. I've witnessed several near misses there myself. There is only one way to get the state to change it. Sue the state.
I'm sorry for both families.
Watch it : 8/21/2009
To Curious, UHH, the truck driver killed someone negligently! That's why he was arrested. And to Kristi, the truckers daughter: you are mistaken. I don't care how big the rig is, they need to watch out for other motorists! I've been bullied by too many riggs muscling me out of the way!
Betty
: 8/21/2009
To Observer, That is the most ridiculous post I have read. The truck driver made a mistake with absolutely no intent and you think THAT deserves a long prison sentence? What if the accident happened the exact same way and the motorcyle driver didn't die but was only scratched up? Would you still feel the same way? What if the difference between life and death in this case was because the motorcyle driver wasn't wearing a helmet? Is that the truck driver's fault? I guarantee this case will be no-billed by the Grand Jury.
Charles
Motorcycle death : 8/21/2009
The worst off and on ramps I have ever seen are on U S 75 in Sherman, Texas. First, no one ever yields when coming on to 75 from the frontage road and they ramps are so short both off an on that to accelerate from the frontage road onto the highway is scary. Second the speed allowed on 75 thru the cities of Denison and Sherman is excessive in my opinion. Poorest engineering of any road I have ever driven. Therefore I seldom drive on it.
Winter Texan
TERRIBLE ACCIDENT : 8/21/2009
My heart goes out to all involved. I know intersection well and travel hwy 75 daily. The inserction is a death trap waiting to happen. I have almost been hit so many times. I always would like to know why this is negligent homicide. I know eveyone keeps saying the truck driver hit him, but what if he didn't see him. No one will ever really know the truth about what happened. All we can do is pray for all parties involved. And hope that you can come to some peace in your life.
A concerned citizen
Wow : 8/21/2009
David was an awesome guy and it's so horrible to know that he's gone. He's not my first friend I lost to a motorcycle accident. Drivers please be cautious to the other drivers around you (cars and motorcycles alike). Lives are being STOLEN for nothing. I know God had a plan and that's why he's gone, but in the end it COULD have been avoided. God be with the Cox family... David will be missed terribly.
AG
How homicide? : 8/21/2009
The reason for homicide charges is that the truck driver changed lanes into an occupied lane. That is the negligance. I know it may sound callous, but I hope he gets a long prison term. I also hope John's family files a cival suit against the driver and the drivers company for the possible lifetime income of someone of John's age and potential.
Observer
Missing a great person : 8/21/2009
I personally knew John Cox. He was an incredible young man, someone his family and friends could easily be immensely proud of. Some of his very good friends work for me, and we were all terribly heart broken yesterday when we heard of this tragedy. To his family, friends and anyone who had the distinct pleasure of meeting this young man . . . our loss is great and will take much time to recover from. We will never understand, nor likely accept that he was taken from us . . . lean on one another for strength and support knowing we will see him again one day.
Dawn
Hmm... : 8/21/2009
Terrible accident, but I have yet to shown a reason as to why the driver should have been arrested...Also, did the rider hold a class CM (M=Motorcycle) license and hold the proper documentation to ride without a helmet in the state of Texas? (i.e. the minimum insurance and was displaying the state required decal)? A terrible accident, nonetheless...
PassingU OndaLeft
Stay On Two Wheels? : 8/21/2009
Former rider, not too many Harleys seen being ridden on wheelies! Regardless, I know what you are talking about and I agree that their license should be pulled. However, this wasn't the case in this accident. The truck driver just moved over to let oncoming traffic merge (at a very dangerous and outdated on ramp) and didn't see the kid or thought he was further behind him than he was. Not sure why the Sherman PD arrested this guy. It was an accident and the guy stayed at the scene. Maybe it's the only kind of "crime" they can solve!!
Jasper
John Cox : 8/21/2009
He will be a greatly missed man. his smile brought happiness to everyone that knew him. He was a good man.
JG
Why : 8/21/2009
I come past that exit of people gettting onto 75 everyday and regardless of who they are they pay no attention to if you can get over or not they are gonna pull on out on you anyway, so if the trucker is arrested then so should be the idiot pulling over into him because they have no respect for the people on the highway already I guess we should just stop in the middle of the highway to accomadate them getting on. Wake up folks this is a 60 mile an hour zone and you are not always goning to be able to move over to accommondate them Sherman needs to do away with all them little get on highway 75 entrances make all of them go up to the one before Travis street where there is 3 lanes seems like we have so many uncaring, drivers but if your gonna charge the trucker charge the driver that was pulling over into him as well, 2 wrongs dont make a right one is just as guilty as the next.
Sistah
So Very Sad : 8/21/2009
My heart breaks for the poor young man on the bike and his family. My heart also goes out to the girl who had to watch it all happen. I too don't understand what the truck driver did wrong. My dad drives a truck and has my entire life. He has always taught me & my 2 sisters to be careful around trucks. There are huge blind spots that the driver cannot control. I’m sure the truck driver probably never saw the poor kid on the bike and had no way of knowing that he was pushing him off the highway. As soon as the driver puts on his blinker that he needs over, you need to move out of his way! Flash your lights at him so he knows you’re there at least until you can move. It was an accident, a freak accident. People who blatantly run red lights and cause auto accidents aren’t arrested at the scene. Why would this truck driver be?
Kristi
Motorcycle Death : 8/21/2009
Though death is a tragedy, it is common. My thoughts to families of both parties. Why did the driver get arrested?? That would have completed the story...IMHO
Flare
wreck : 8/21/2009
there are blind spots in cars, let alone 18wheelers.I am so sorry for everyone involved. God will be with you if you will allow him. John is in heaven now. The truckdriver will suffer for the rest of his life. and GiGi you are right your life is changed forever. May you all find peace. I have nearly hit, both motor cycle and just a low car I was driving a suv had I not known he was there I would have hit him. I am a very causous person. Families I pray for you. jh
yes
Motorcycle riders : 8/21/2009
I have driven/ridden motorcycles in the past and I think I am pretty aware of them when I am in my car. To Electra-Hog: please tell your motorcycle buddies (all of them . . . not just the Harley riders) to please keep both wheels on the road when they are on the highway!!! Last Thursday I was headed home on 75 and just passed Hwy 84 onramp going north. There was a motorcycle in front of me that decided he was gonna ride a wheelie going 70 mph down the highway. Traffic was all around and I slowed to 55 mph to stay as far away as possible. I could just see him losing it and me running the idiot over and being charged with some BS charge. The rider also took the exit to get onto 91 while he was still riding the wheelie!! I came in the door saying any rider caught doing that should lose his license and have his bike taken away. It scared me to death! Not just because it was in front of me, but because of how bad it could have turned out. He was lucky this time. My prayers go out to both families involved in this tragedy.
Former rider
Praying for all involved : 8/21/2009
My prayers go out to this young mans family, the truck driver and his family, and for the young lady that witnessed this accident.
Concerned
: 8/21/2009
I read nothing in the article as to why the driver would be arrested. What specifically did the driver do?
curious
Re work your scene : 8/21/2009
Think about it! Truck never hit motor bike#1 motor bike changed lanes#2 bike strikes rail#3 Bike goes down with rider. Sorry aout the rider. driver of the truck stays at the scene. Negligent on who the police thats Negligents. ONLY IN TEXAS
Only in texas
ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN : 8/21/2009
I remember several years back a big truck exiting off HWY 75 on the exit ramp just north of the ramp getting onto Hwy 75 going so fast his rig shifted and turned over on a young male bicyclist who was killed at the time. Another sad situation in this area. TXDOT............are you listening?????
ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN
ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN : 8/21/2009
My sympathy to all in this sad situation. I use that ramp everyday and understand how dangerous it can be. Another place in Sherman just waiting for an accident is over on HWY 56 going west, going under Hwy 1417 and try to get up on Hwy 1417 going north. You have to jump out on Hwy 1417 not knowing if someone will come over that overpass and hit you. This right now is a construction zone. It seems TXDOT would have made a safer way to get up onto HWY 1417. Just another accident waiting to happen. I have cautioned my children not to go anywhere near that area.
ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN
whose falt, really : 8/21/2009
Lets think about this for a minute. Is'nt the person merging onto the highway supposed to yeild for oncoming traffic? At least thats what I was taught. Maybe its changed. It seems like anymore the people merging onto the highway dont even slow down, or look for that matter, before merging on. I see it all the time.
Mike
Motorcycle Crash : 8/21/2009
This is so sad. These trucks take total control of the road. I have said this forever...something needs to be done for the trucking companies to have their own scheduled transit route. I have almost been hit by a truck while driving my car. There needs to be more mandated laws to control the drivers of these trucking companies. When they get on the road, seems that all these drivers have learned while they were in school and orientation has totally went out the window. I am not saying they do not receive problems on the road, just seems that more and more truck drivers are less courterous with lane changes and speed.My heart and condolences go out to the John Cox family. I know this is truly a difficult time for you. I do not know you, but I truly care. This was such a senseless act, the truck driver should have known better. I hope this truck driver...like many others do not just get a slap on the hand. This is just so sad.
I Care
Joh Cox Friend : 8/21/2009
I new John Cox very well and I am very saddened about his death. I hope and pray that everyone will be praying for the family. This young man was a very very respectable and polite individual. I worked with him when he was at Circuit City before it closed. He was a person of whom I hoped my three boys would grow up to be like. He will be missed.
James Cross
Comments about accident : 8/21/2009
My granddaughter was the young woman that was behind the motorcycle and she sent this to me last night to express her feelings about the tradgey... I can honestly say that when I woke up today I would have no clue what my day would look like. I started on my trip back to school close to 11am. After only 5 minutes i had to turn around and go back home so dad could fix the tarp on the bed of my truck. Soon after that I stopped in Anna, TX because I didn't think my passenger side door was closed enough. those, and all the other things that delayed my leaving put me in the exact spot God wanted me to be in. around 12 o'clock I noticed a man on a motorcycle. He was coming from the entrance ramp and tried to get in my lane so I slowed down to let him. He looked at me and gave me a friendly peace sign to thank me for letting him over. We stayed next to each other for the next 20 minutes or so and I remember laughing, imagining what this guy was thinking when he was seeing me dance and sing to a song on my radio. To clear up any questions, I'll tell you everything that happened. It's not pretty and it's not sugar coated. But I pray that because of that, it will get your attention and help remind you how fragile life is. The man on the motorcycle (John David Cox, age 22) was in the left hand lane with me, only a few car lengths in front of me. An 18 wheeler in the right hand lane tried to get over into our lane to keep from slowing traffic and didn't see John. The young man on the bike was run off the road and hit the front of a guard rail head on. I slammed on my breaks to keep from hitting the motorcycle but John was already in the air being ejected from his bike. I managed to stop quick enough to only bump a wheel on his bike with my tire. John landed about 50 ft in front of me in the next lane. I can't explain it to you, but as I was stopping my truck and getting out of the car I remember thinking that the man was going to be ok. Maybe a couple broken bones at the most. That I could just help him up and wait for an ambulance... I ran to him and was the first person to him… I was scared to move him for fear of an injury that could be worsened by me improperly moving him. I started screaming for help, shaking, and begging him to wake up. I slowly began to notice the blood pouring from his body in two streams towards me. I saw the road burn on his skin and the blood coming from his ears. He wasn't responding to me or the other people beginning to arrive on the scene. A nurse ran up a few seconds after me to aide him. And an off duty police officer had to pull me away from the man… I was screaming, crying, and couldn't make out any words, let alone sentences when people started asking me what happened. The police woman pulled me to the back of my truck so I couldn't see what was going on but I resisted and saw people administering CPR until the ambulance arrived. The bike laid in a million tiny pieces around my truck and I was screaming "oh God, help him" over and over. The emergency personal began arriving on the scene blocking my view of John. The nurse started walking back to her vehicle and I stopped her to ask about the man's condition… She shook her head and said he was unresponsive... He was pronounced dead at the scene. So many people were there. So many people didn't shed a tear or even a glimpse or sadness for the life that had just been taken right in front of their very eyes. I stayed for an hour and a half standing on the side of the high way. I wanted to wait until they moved him… Because I could still see his work boots sticking out from underneath a white cover. My parents drove like crazy to come get me and take me away from the scene… The man driving the 18 wheeler was arrest for criminally negligent homicide… James Edward Cornelious, of Arkansas age 46. I’m sending you this message because I literally don't know what to make out of this entire situation. I saw God take a man's life right in front of me. I witnessed His grace in sparing me from the accident. I saw the callousness of the world. And the comfort God sent me through strangers. My mind is in a million different places. I think I've cried all the tears I have to cry and now, I'm trying to figure out why God put me there… Why was it him and not me…? Why did I have to witness that…? What am I supposed to do with this? I can't answer any of these questions right now, and I don't know if I ever will. But I'm praying that God uses this somehow. I pray that you all will keep the Cox and Cornelious families in your prayers. I can't imagine what either family is going through. And lastly, I ask that you pray for me. I know I wasn't hurt or injured and I didn't lose a loved one, but I truly believe that my life has been forever changed. Pray that God gives me peace and comforts me in this tough time. Thank you so much for your prayers, concerns and for loving me unconditionally. I love you and I will keep you all updated.
GIGI
TRAGEDY : 8/21/2009
THAT IS SUCH A BAD ON RAMP WITH A VERY SHORT RAMP TO GET ON.DRIVERS THAT DON'T KNOW THE AREA ARE CAUGHT OFF GUARD.EVEN SO,A PROFESSIONAL SHOULD HAVE BEEN MORE AWARE AND STAYED IN HIS LANE, EVEN IF IT MEANT APPLYING THE "BRAKES" I SEE THE BIG RIGS ALL THE TIME JUMPING OVER TO THE LEFT LANE WHEN SOMEONE IS GETTING ON A RAMP AND WONDER HOW WELL THEY CHECKED FOR TRAFFIC BEFORE THEY DID.I'M A LOCAL DRIVER TO THE AREA ,AND IF TRAFFIC ISN'T CLEAR I AVOID THAT RAMP AND GO DOWN TO THE NEXT ON RAMP PAST WASHINGTON.YOU HAVE YOUR OWN LANE GETTING ON THERE.WAY SAFFER.
PRAYERS FOR JOHN
Concerned : 8/21/2009
My condolences and prayers are with the family of the motorcyle rider. My concern is how accidents are being turned into criminal matters. The merge ramps on 75 are poorly designed and a driver in the right lane is often caught between merging traffic on the right and that on the left. Why are accidents now a criminal matter and not negligence, handled in civil court, like they were in the past. I undestand there was a death. However, the same actions should apply to a less sever accident. No driver intends to get in an accident. Is every driver in an accident going to jail?
on 75
Why criminally negligent homicide? : 8/21/2009
There just seems to be so many factors in this situation, that unless this tractor driver was under the influence I gotta ask, why the charges??...... This particular "ON" ramp had to be designed by some drunk engineer, so TxDot bears some responsibility...... I happen to be a motorcycle driver and one of my most closely adhered to rules being, make sure the four wheelers and larger vehicles know I am there. Even if this requires a blast on the horns and a middle finger salute. You can't imagine how many four wheelers on a cellphones have almost taken me out. Thus, it would appear Mr. Cox failed to anticipate, which is a fatal mistake on a motorcyle.....No helmet, sorry, but another bad mistake......From what I have seen and heard so far, Mr. Cornelius made a horrible mistake no doubt. Something he will have to live with for a long time. But, it looks and reads like an "accident.".......Thus a repeat of my title, "Why the, CRIMINALLY negligent homicide?"
DeepestSympathies
wreck : 8/21/2009
Im wondering what the driver did to cause the wreck and cause for him to be jailed?? Herald Democrat please be more specific. To the family Im so sorry for your loss he was so young.
Texas is best
What?? : 8/21/2009
Am I missing something? It's so hard to tell when reading a story in which Mary Farmer writes because she writes so poorly, but why was the truck driver arrested if he didn't strike the motorcycle and if he stopped afterwards??
Charles
God Bless John & his fam : 8/21/2009
I Just want to say God Bless John David Cox, and his family. He was a great guy, we were becoming great friends. Had the plessure of meeting his family this year on memorial day. Be strong thru this tough time, he is with the angels! Ill always remember my EYE twin!
Brittani
WTF : 8/21/2009
The City of Sherman needs to do something about that on-ramp. That is one of the worst sections of highway. Almost every time I come up to that on-ramp a wreck almost happens.
MP
hi : 8/21/2009
This is the son of a good friend of mine. The father if John works with my girlfriend and we have hung out many times.
Waller
Design is the real culprit. : 8/21/2009
Poor man! Anyone who has traveled this stretch has likly had to dash for cover at these oblolete entries to 75..
Wrong place. wrong time
A Bad Deal All Around : 8/21/2009
This is a very sad situation. I had met Mr. Cox several times and he was a GREAT guy! He was well mannered, clean cut, the whole works. I cannot imagine the pain that his family is feeling right now and my heart and prayers go out to them all. At teh same time, I also feel bad for the truck driver, especially after being charged with criminally negligent homicide. Unless he was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, this is just plain wrong! By all accounts, this was an accident. I seriously doubt this man thought "hey, I think I'll run this kid on the bike off the road". He was likely just moving over (as a courtesy) to allow oncoming traffic onto the highway. Can you imagine the pain and hurt of accidentally killing an innocent kid, and then being cuffed and charged with homicide?? That Ballard guy help cover up a murder and dispose of a body and he walked. Is there any true justice in Grayson County anymore??
Jamie
Motorcycle Wreck : 8/21/2009
We would like to express our deepest regrets, to the Cox family. With that said lets get to the point, how many deaths is needed before this outdated entry ramp is closed or updated. This ramp was closed before but reopened due to Liberals complants. TXDOT you need to take control of the unsafe ramps in this area.
Honda
No Respect : 8/21/2009
Motorcyclist hardly ever get any respect from automobile drivers, they act like they are not there just because they are on two wheels. It can get real scary out there sometimes. I have come close to getting ran over, under and down by people who just do not look very well or just really do not seem to care maybe some of those careless drivers need some time in a jail cell to wake them up - it wouldn't hurt my feelings any at all if they did especially if it would save a life! Ride Safe brothers and sisters.
Electra-Hog
wreck : 8/20/2009
My sympathies to this young mans family. I remember many years ago, a truck driver friend of mine told me NEVER travel alongside an 18 wheeler. Slow down abit and allow enough room to develop which will enable you to completely pass the truck. There is just too much danger of the trucker not seeing someone traveling mid-trailer to the rear corner of the trailer. It has been good advise all these years.
concerned
Question : 8/20/2009
If the driver never hit the motorcycle and he stayed at the scene, how is it that he is charged with be negligent?
A curious observer
LOCAL AND WIRE 
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