HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — It was a tragic day Tuesday for the Harris County Sheriff's Office after one of their deputies was killed after being hit by a truck on the Grand Parkway.
The department identified the deputy as John H. Coddou. He was 50 years old.
Coddou was assisting with a crash on the Grand Parkway in the Cypress area when he was hit by a white Chevrolet 2500, according to Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. Coddou was flown to the hospital where he later died.
Running patrol isn't Coddou's regular assignment. At the time of the crash, he was an investigator with HCSO's Violent Crimes Unit.
The sheriff said he saw community members in need and jumped in to help.
"Him happening to stop to help the people out shows what kind of person he is," said Montgomery County Sheriff’s Deputy Zach Vercher.
Vercher recently met Coddou during a fishing trip with the non-profit Texas Boys Outdoors. The organization takes out first responders, military veterans and kids in need on outdoor trips.
“Wonderful man," Verche said. "Very humble and, you know, well-spoken and down to Earth. And a family man, for sure."
Deputy Coddou served his country before the county. He was in the U.S. Army before joining HCSO more than 20 years ago. He first joined the agency as a detention officer in 2003 before becoming a deputy in 2005.
The sheriff said Coddou was very well-liked and a "phenomenal individual."
Coddou leaves behind a wife.
The 100 Club announced that a $20,000 check will be presented to Coddou's wife to help with any immediate financial needs. Additional financial support for the family will also be made after an assessment of their needs is conducted.