Maribeth Cox Death & Obituary: On Tuesday, February 4, a 26-year-old student was struck by a vehicle while crossing the 3rd Avenue crosswalk in Huntington. The student, whose identity has not been released, was immediately transported to the hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. The 20-year-old driver of the vehicle was cited for failing to yield to the pedestrian, bringing renewed attention to pedestrian safety concerns in the area.
A Tragic Reminder: Maribeth Cox’s Death in 2021
The incident on February 4 has sparked memories of a similar tragedy that occurred in 2021. Maribeth Cox, a 22-year-old student, was fatally struck while crossing a nearby street. Her mother, Kari Peeples Cox, expressed how hearing about the recent accident reminded her of her daughter’s devastating death. She emphasized the importance of heightened awareness for both drivers and pedestrians in the area.
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“I understand that everyone is in a rush, but it is crucial for them to remain vigilant,” Cox said. “Students also need to be aware of their surroundings; the responsibility does not lie solely with the drivers.”
Community Response and Safety Measures
In light of the recent incident and the tragic loss of Maribeth Cox, local authorities have taken steps to improve safety in the area. Speed monitors have been installed on 3rd and 5th avenues to enhance driver awareness. Huntington Police Chief Phil Watkins acknowledged the importance of school zone safety and the need for increased caution on the roads.
“As a police department, we hold these children dear,” Chief Watkins remarked. “This area is a significant school zone, and we must remind drivers that these are children traveling to and from school. It is essential for drivers to be extremely aware of this fact.”
Cox Family Offers Support and Well-Wishes
In a heartfelt statement, Kari Peeples Cox extended her well-wishes to the injured pedestrian and their family. “I want them to know that we are praying for them and hope for a full recovery,” she said. “If their parents need someone to talk to, they are welcome to reach out to me.”
Chief Watkins clarified that the recent incident was not related to speeding, as the driver was turning while the pedestrian was crossing.
Conclusion: The Importance of Road Safety and Awareness
The tragic incidents involving pedestrians in Huntington highlight the need for greater awareness and caution on the roads, particularly in school zones. As the community continues to mourn the loss of Maribeth Cox and support the injured student, it serves as a reminder for both drivers and pedestrians to stay vigilant and prioritize safety.
May Maribeth Cox’s memory inspire further efforts to protect the safety of all individuals, particularly students, on the streets of Huntington.