I'm mad. There is another widow in Texas. She was feeling
the joys of life: recently married, starting a future and
looking forward to a family. Now she is feeling pain. She is
feeling anger. How could this happen? Why?
"He never had a chance," said the detective who investigated the case, his voice shaking with anger. The detective recommended charges of criminal negligent homicide. Put me on the witness stand and we'll get an indictment, he said. But this may be three months to a year away. Grand Jury trials take time and District Attorneys are often reluctant to prosecute first time offenders with no alcohol involved.
The cyclist was 17 inches from the curb. He'd been riding three times a week, every week, for months. It was a part of his life. He enjoyed scuba diving, loved his wife, loved life.
"He never had a chance." The motorist was not speeding, but hed been up all night. Had to get the car back.
July 4, 1996, 7:10 A.M., he did not even swerve. No attempts to avoid a collision. Did he see the bike? Says no, later, says yes. Cyclist hit from the rear. Impact with car traveling 50-55 mph takes his life. Fatal injuries to neck and spine. The helmet he is wearing is of no consequence. Nothing could save him, he never had a chance.
I talk with the widow. She's my age, under 30. I think of my wife. It was the most difficult conversation I've ever had. But she is strong. She works as a victim's rights advocate. She is a victim now. Through the tears and the choked up voice she wants to help. She wants to change things. "I'll do whatever I can. Just let me know."
Her strength is an inspiration. It's not too late, if it helps cyclists make a difference. Come together. Get angry. Make it unacceptable for these tragedies to happen.
Jason Randolph Randy Hudson was killed while
riding on FM 2094 near League City.
Contact Detective Grant, League City Police Department 713/332-2566,
Galveston County District Attorney Joel Bennett 713/996-1710,
Kitty Barnes, Bike Barn, 713/480-9100,
Space City Cycling Club 713/286-0336,
TBC 512/476/7433, or your local legislator.