Heartbreaking Loss: Harris County Deputy Killed in Line of Duty on Highway 99

Deputy Investigator John Coddou, a dedicated servant with 20 years of experience, tragically lost his life after being struck by a reckless driver while attending to a minor crash.

In a somber turn of events, the Harris County Sheriff's Office has released further details surrounding the tragic loss of Deputy Investigator John Coddou, who was killed in the line of duty earlier this week.

On Tuesday morning, Deputy Coddou, a respected law enforcement officer with two decades of service, was investigating a minor collision on Highway 99 when he was struck by a Chevrolet Silverado 2500. The vehicle, driven by a yet-to-be-identified male, approached the scene and swerved to avoid a lane blocked by Coddou's patrol vehicle.

Tragically, the driver's evasive maneuver sent the truck into the grassy median, directly where Coddou was standing. The deputy was severely injured and succumbed to his injuries at Memorial Hermann Hospital-Texas Medical Center.

The Harris County Sheriff's Office has expressed profound grief over the loss of Deputy Coddou, a dedicated member of their force. Sheriff Ed Gonzalez described their devastation, saying, "We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Deputy Coddou." A solemn procession was held on Thursday in his honor.

According to the traffic report, Deputy Coddou had positioned his patrol vehicle on the highway's left shoulder, with the right side partially obstructing the first northbound lane. His vehicle's emergency lights were activated at the time of the incident.

The report further indicates that the driver of the Silverado was talking on his cellphone hands-free as he approached the crash scene. Upon reaching the blocked lane, he attempted to avoid Coddou's vehicle but miscalculated the maneuver, resulting in the fatal collision.

The Harris County Sheriff's Office's Vehicular Crimes Division is diligently investigating the crash to determine the exact circumstances surrounding Deputy Coddou's tragic death. As the investigation progresses, more details may emerge about the driver's actions and any potential charges.

The loss of Deputy Coddou has shaken the Harris County community and beyond. His fellow law enforcement officers have expressed their condolences and paid tribute to his bravery and dedication. The community has also come together to mourn the loss of a devoted public servant who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

As the investigation continues, the memory of Deputy Coddou will serve as a reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day. His loss is a tragic reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for drivers to be attentive and cautious, especially in the presence of emergency responders.