GRAYSON COUNTY, Texas — A tragic accident in Grayson County has resulted in the death of 42-year-old Patricia Cross and the arrest of Joshua Connel, 38, of Denison, who faces a felony charge of intoxication manslaughter with a vehicle. The crash occurred early on the morning of September 7, along the 1700 block of FM 120, and has left the local community mourning while raising concerns about the dangers of impaired driving.
The Crash and Immediate Response
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Connel’s pickup truck veered off FM 120 in the early hours, striking several roadside objects before colliding with a concrete culvert, causing the vehicle to roll over. Emergency responders arrived promptly at the scene.
Connel was transported to Texoma Medical Center (TMC) to receive treatment for injuries sustained during the crash. His passenger, Patricia Cross, 42, was ejected from the truck during the rollover and taken to TMC in life-threatening condition. Tragically, despite medical efforts, Cross succumbed to her injuries two days later.
Arrest and Charges
Following the investigation, Joshua Connel was arrested on Friday, charged with felony intoxication manslaughter with a vehicle. Troopers confirmed that Connel was allegedly intoxicated at the time of the crash, a factor believed to have contributed directly to the severity of the accident.
The felony charge carries severe penalties under Texas law, reflecting the grave consequences of impaired driving and its potential to cause loss of life.
Community Reaction
The news of Patricia Cross’s death has sent shockwaves through Grayson County and the Denison community. Friends, neighbors, and family members remember Cross as a kind, vibrant, and compassionate woman whose life was tragically cut short.
“She was always full of life, always ready to help someone,” said a friend of Cross. “It’s hard to accept that someone’s recklessness took her away so suddenly. Our community is heartbroken.”
Local leaders have emphasized the importance of safe driving, particularly avoiding alcohol-impaired operations of vehicles, as this tragic incident demonstrates the devastating impact such choices can have.
Legal Proceedings
Joshua Connel is currently being held at the Grayson County Jail awaiting legal proceedings. Authorities have confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing as prosecutors prepare for the case. If convicted, Connel faces significant prison time, fines, and other penalties associated with intoxication manslaughter.
“This is a tragic example of the dangers of drinking and driving,” said a spokesperson from the Texas DPS. “We hope this serves as a reminder to the community about the responsibility each driver carries to ensure the safety of themselves and others.”
Remembering Patricia Cross
Patricia Cross, 42, leaves behind family and friends who are struggling to cope with her untimely death. Loved ones have described her as a caring, dedicated individual whose presence brightened the lives of those around her. Memorial services are expected to be announced by her family, allowing the community to gather, honor her memory, and grieve together.
Her passing underscores the human toll of impaired driving, reinforcing calls for awareness, prevention, and community engagement to prevent similar tragedies in the future.