Mar 8, 2025, 9:55 PM
Mar 8, 2025, 10:26 AM

Midlothian man dies as family RV rolls during severe storm

Tragic
Highlights
  • Severe storms swept through North Texas on March 8, 2025, causing significant destruction.
  • A member of the racing community, TJ Bailey, tragically lost his life when the family RV was rolled by strong winds.
  • The incident has prompted community support efforts and will lead to a dedication of the upcoming TX2K event in his memory.
Story

In North Texas, significant devastation occurred from severe storms on Saturday morning, March 8, 2025. The Ennis Police Department reported that a 42-year-old man from Midlothian lost his life when the camper he was in rolled multiple times due to extreme winds. The wind gusts reached as high as 97 mph, leading to various instances of destruction, including the collapse of a grocery store's wall. At least four additional individuals were injured during these storms, although their identities and current health status remain undisclosed. The storms caused further chaos on the roads, particularly affecting the southbound lanes of I-35E in Waxahachie, where multiple 18-wheelers were overturned. Eyewitness accounts described the terrifying conditions, with one resident commenting on how dark and severe the weather was overnight. In anticipation of the storm, meteorologists had issued weather warnings and designated Saturday as a First Alert Weather Day due to the projected severe conditions and a significant cold front. TJ Bailey, a dedicated member of the Texas Motorplex community, was preparing for a day of racing ahead of the horrifying incident. He devoted over a decade to his work there, helping to prepare the tracks for events. His family, who were present in the RV during the storm, managed to sustain injuries but were released from the hospital later, as stated by his ex-wife, Courtney Shows. The tragic accident has left a profound impact on his community, with friends and colleagues recalling Bailey as a loving father who dedicated his life to both his family and his passion for car racing. In the wake of his death, there has been an outpouring of support, with social media tributes highlighting his characteristics as an excellent father and friend. Efforts have been initiated to assist his family during this difficult time, including the establishment of a donation account to ensure they receive any contributions without interference from fund-processing platforms. The TX2K car racing event, which had been significantly impacted by the loss of Bailey, will be dedicated to his memory, ensuring that he remains a part of the community and the racing family he cherished.

Opinions

You've reached the end