Deadly Pedestrian Crash in New Braunfels: Dump Truck Driver Charged with Criminally Negligent Homicide

A Life Cut Short on North Seguin Avenue

The afternoon of February 25, 2026, started like any other in New Braunfels. Stephanie Madzy, a 60-year-old woman whose life was filled with family, friends, and community, was simply walking near the 200 block of North Seguin Avenue. At approximately 5:45 p.m., her world—and the world of her loved ones—was shattered in an instant.

A dump truck, stopped at a red light, failed to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. As the driver, 60-year-old Jude T. Jones, made a right turn, he struck Stephanie Madzy. The impact was catastrophic. Despite the heroic efforts of first responders, who performed life-saving measures at the scene, Stephanie succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead.

This wasn’t just a tragic accident—it was a preventable tragedy. New Braunfels police have charged Jude T. Jones with criminally negligent homicide, a charge that carries serious legal consequences. But for Stephanie’s family, no charge can bring her back. What they need now is justice, accountability, and answers.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen far too many cases like this—cases where a moment of negligence changes lives forever. If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, you don’t have to face this alone. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting for victims of trucking negligence. We know how to hold trucking companies, drivers, and other liable parties accountable. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Who Is Liable for This Tragedy?

In trucking accident cases, multiple parties may share liability for the crash. Unlike car accidents, where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve a web of responsible parties. In Stephanie Madzy’s case, the following entities may be liable:

1. The Truck Driver: Jude T. Jones

Jude T. Jones, the driver of the dump truck, has been charged with criminally negligent homicide. This charge suggests that his actions—or failure to act—directly contributed to Stephanie’s death. Under Texas law, criminally negligent homicide occurs when a person causes the death of another by failing to perceive a substantial and unjustifiable risk.

In a civil lawsuit, Jones may also face liability for negligence. To prove negligence, Stephanie’s family must show that Jones:
– Owed a duty of care to Stephanie (e.g., to obey traffic laws and yield to pedestrians).
– Breached that duty (e.g., by failing to yield the right-of-way).
– Caused Stephanie’s injuries as a result of that breach.
– Stephanie suffered damages (e.g., wrongful death, pain and suffering).

2. The Trucking Company

The trucking company that employed Jude T. Jones may also be liable under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, which holds employers responsible for the actions of their employees when those actions occur within the scope of employment. Additionally, the trucking company may be directly liable for:

• Negligent Hiring: If the company failed to properly vet Jones’s driving record, criminal history, or qualifications, they may be liable for negligent hiring.
• Negligent Training: Truck drivers must be trained to operate their vehicles safely, especially in urban areas with pedestrian traffic. If Jones lacked proper training, the company may be liable.
• Negligent Supervision: Trucking companies must monitor their drivers’ performance, including compliance with hours-of-service regulations and traffic laws. If the company failed to supervise Jones adequately, they may share liability.
• Negligent Maintenance: If the dump truck had mechanical issues that contributed to the crash (e.g., faulty brakes, inadequate mirrors), the company may be liable for failing to maintain the vehicle properly.

3. The Truck Owner (If Different from the Carrier)

In some cases, the truck is owned by a separate entity from the trucking company. If this is the case, the truck owner may also share liability, particularly if they failed to ensure the vehicle was properly maintained or equipped with necessary safety features.

4. The Cargo Loader or Shipper

Dump trucks often transport construction materials, debris, or other cargo. If the cargo was improperly loaded or secured, it could have shifted during the turn, affecting the truck’s stability or the driver’s ability to maneuver safely. The company responsible for loading the cargo may share liability if their negligence contributed to the crash.

5. The Truck or Parts Manufacturer

If a defect in the truck or its components (e.g., brakes, mirrors, steering system) contributed to the crash, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws. For example, if the truck’s mirrors were poorly designed and failed to provide adequate visibility, the manufacturer could be held responsible.

6. Government Entities

In some cases, government entities may share liability for trucking accidents. For example:
– If the intersection where the crash occurred was poorly designed or lacked adequate signage, the city or county may be liable.
– If road conditions (e.g., potholes, debris) contributed to the crash, the entity responsible for road maintenance may share liability.

However, suing a government entity in Texas is complex due to sovereign immunity, which limits the government’s liability. There are also strict notice requirements and short deadlines for filing claims against government entities.

How This Tragedy Could Have Been Prevented

Trucking accidents like the one that killed Stephanie Madzy are almost always preventable. They occur because of negligence—whether it’s a driver’s failure to yield, a trucking company’s failure to train its drivers, or a manufacturer’s failure to design safe vehicles. Here’s how this tragedy could have been avoided:

1. Proper Driver Training

Truck drivers must be trained to recognize and account for blind spots, especially when making turns in urban areas. Training should include:

• Blind Spot Awareness: Drivers should be taught to check their mirrors and perform head checks before turning, particularly on the right side where blind spots are largest.
• Pedestrian Right-of-Way: Drivers must be trained to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and to exercise extra caution in areas with high pedestrian traffic.
• Defensive Driving: Drivers should be trained to anticipate the actions of pedestrians and other vehicles, especially in urban environments.

2. Compliance with Federal Regulations

The FMCSA’s regulations are designed to prevent accidents like this one. Compliance with these rules could have saved Stephanie’s life:

• 49 CFR § 392.11 – Safe Operation: Drivers must operate their vehicles at a speed that is safe for conditions. In urban areas with pedestrian traffic, this means reducing speed and exercising extra caution.
• 49 CFR § 392.2 – Applicable Operating Rules: Drivers must obey all traffic laws, including yielding the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks.
• 49 CFR § 391.11 – Driver Qualifications: Trucking companies must ensure their drivers are properly qualified, trained, and medically fit to operate commercial vehicles.

3. Use of Technology

Modern technology can help prevent trucking accidents. Some of the technologies that could have made a difference in this case include:

• Blind Spot Detection Systems: These systems use sensors to detect vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists in the truck’s blind spots and alert the driver.
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): AEB systems can automatically apply the brakes if the truck is about to collide with an object or pedestrian.
• Dashcams: Forward-facing and cab-facing dashcams can provide valuable evidence in the event of an accident, helping to determine fault and prevent future crashes.
• Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): ELDs track a driver’s hours of service, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and preventing fatigue-related accidents.

4. Proper Vehicle Maintenance

Dump trucks, like all commercial vehicles, must be properly maintained to ensure safe operation. Key maintenance areas include:

• Brakes: Worn or improperly adjusted brakes can increase stopping distances and contribute to accidents.
• Mirrors: Mirrors must be properly adjusted to minimize blind spots. Additional convex mirrors can help drivers see pedestrians and cyclists.
• Lighting: Proper lighting is essential for visibility, especially in low-light conditions.
• Tires: Worn or underinflated tires can cause blowouts or reduce traction, increasing the risk of accidents.

5. Infrastructure Improvements

Cities and counties can also take steps to prevent pedestrian-truck accidents by improving infrastructure:

• Protected Crosswalks: Crosswalks with physical barriers or raised platforms can help protect pedestrians from turning vehicles.
• Pedestrian Signals: Timed pedestrian signals can give pedestrians a head start before vehicles are allowed to turn.
• Separated Bike Lanes: Bike lanes separated from vehicle traffic can reduce conflicts between trucks and cyclists.
• Improved Signage: Clear signage can alert drivers to pedestrian crossings and remind them to yield the right-of-way.

Why This Case Matters for New Braunfels and Beyond

While this tragedy occurred in New Braunfels, the lessons it teaches apply to communities across Texas, including Bonham and Bonham County. Pedestrian-truck accidents are a growing problem, particularly in urban areas where trucks and pedestrians share the road. Here’s why this case matters for your community:

1. The Growing Danger of Truck-Pedestrian Conflicts

As cities grow and traffic increases, the risk of conflicts between trucks and pedestrians grows as well. New Braunfels, like many Texas cities, is experiencing rapid growth, which means more trucks on the road and more pedestrians in urban areas. Without proper safety measures, tragedies like Stephanie’s death will continue to occur.

2. The Need for Stronger Regulations

The FMCSA’s regulations are a good start, but they’re not enough. Many trucking companies prioritize profit over safety, cutting corners on training, maintenance, and compliance. Stronger enforcement of existing regulations—and new regulations where gaps exist—are needed to protect pedestrians.

3. The Role of Technology in Prevention

Modern technology, such as blind spot detection systems and automatic emergency braking, can help prevent accidents like this one. However, these technologies are not yet required on all commercial vehicles. Advocacy for stronger safety standards is critical to reducing the number of preventable tragedies.

4. The Importance of Legal Accountability

When trucking companies and drivers act negligently, they must be held accountable. Legal accountability not only provides justice for victims and their families but also sends a message to the trucking industry that safety must come first. High-profile verdicts and settlements can force companies to change their practices and prioritize safety.

Landmark Trucking Verdicts: What’s Possible When Justice Is Served

Trucking accident cases can result in significant verdicts and settlements, particularly when gross negligence is involved. Here are some landmark cases that demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

1. $1 Billion Verdict – Florida (2021)

In one of the largest trucking verdicts in history, a Florida jury awarded $1 billion to the family of an 18-year-old who was killed in a trucking accident. The case involved gross negligence on the part of the trucking company, which had a history of safety violations. The jury awarded $100 million in compensatory damages and $900 million in punitive damages.

Why It Matters: This case demonstrates that juries are willing to award massive verdicts when trucking companies act with reckless disregard for safety.

2. $462 Million Verdict – Missouri (2024)

In 2024, a Missouri jury awarded $462 million to the families of two men who were decapitated in an underride crash. The case involved a defective underride guard on the trailer, which failed to prevent the smaller vehicle from sliding underneath. The verdict included compensation for wrongful death, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.

Why It Matters: This case highlights the importance of proper vehicle maintenance and design. Underride crashes are among the most deadly types of trucking accidents, and this verdict sends a message to manufacturers and trucking companies that they must prioritize safety.

3. $160 Million Verdict – Alabama (2024)

In 2024, an Alabama jury awarded $160 million to a man who was left quadriplegic after a rollover accident. The case involved negligent hiring and training on the part of the trucking company, which had a history of safety violations. The jury awarded $75 million in compensatory damages and $75 million in punitive damages.

Why It Matters: This case demonstrates the importance of holding trucking companies accountable for negligent hiring and training practices. When companies cut corners on safety, the consequences can be catastrophic.

4. $730 Million Verdict – Texas (2021)

In 2021, a Texas jury awarded $730 million to the family of a 73-year-old woman who was killed by an oversize load. The case involved negligence on the part of the trucking company, which failed to properly secure the load and obtain the necessary permits. The jury awarded $480 million in compensatory damages and $250 million in punitive damages.

Why It Matters: This case underscores the importance of proper cargo securement and compliance with oversize load regulations. When trucking companies fail to follow the rules, the results can be deadly.

5. $150 Million Settlement – Texas (2022)

In 2022, Werner Enterprises settled a case for $150 million after two children were killed in a trucking accident on I-30. The case involved driver fatigue and hours-of-service violations, as well as negligent hiring and supervision by the trucking company.

Why It Matters: This case demonstrates the dangers of driver fatigue and the importance of holding trucking companies accountable for violating federal regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian-Truck Accidents

1. What should I do if I’m involved in a pedestrian-truck accident?

If you’re involved in a pedestrian-truck accident, follow these steps:

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injury, may not be immediately apparent.
• Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
• Gather Witness Information: Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Report the Accident: Call the police and file a report.
• Do Not Give a Recorded Statement: Insurance adjusters will try to get you to give a recorded statement. Do not do this without consulting an attorney.
• Call Attorney911: Contact us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll help you preserve evidence, investigate the crash, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

2. Who can be held liable for a pedestrian-truck accident?

Multiple parties may share liability for a pedestrian-truck accident, including:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The truck owner (if different from the carrier)
• The cargo loader or shipper
• The truck or parts manufacturer
• Government entities (if road design or maintenance contributed to the crash)

3. What damages can I recover in a pedestrian-truck accident case?

In a pedestrian-truck accident case, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs related to your injuries.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to your injuries and recovery.
• Lost Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work or reduce your earning potential.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries.
• Loss of Consortium: The impact of your injuries on your relationship with your spouse or family.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer.

4. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a pedestrian-truck accident in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims is two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to file a lawsuit. However, it’s important to act quickly. Evidence disappears, and witnesses’ memories fade over time. The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

5. What if the truck driver was charged with a crime?

If the truck driver was charged with a crime, such as criminally negligent homicide, this can strengthen your civil case. A criminal conviction can serve as evidence of negligence in a civil lawsuit. However, even if the driver is not criminally charged, you may still have a valid civil claim.

6. How can I prove the truck driver was negligent?

To prove negligence in a pedestrian-truck accident case, you must show that the driver:

• Owed a duty of care to you (e.g., to obey traffic laws and yield to pedestrians).
• Breached that duty (e.g., by failing to yield the right-of-way).
• Caused your injuries as a result of that breach.
• You suffered damages (e.g., medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering).

Evidence that can help prove negligence includes:

• Police reports
• Witness statements
• Black box data
• ELD records
• Dashcam footage
• Maintenance records
• Driver qualification files

7. What if the trucking company denies liability?

Trucking companies often deny liability or try to shift blame to the victim. They may argue that the pedestrian was at fault or that the accident was unavoidable. However, with the right evidence and legal strategy, you can overcome these defenses. At Attorney911, we know how to counter these arguments and build a strong case on your behalf.

8. How much is my pedestrian-truck accident case worth?

The value of your case depends on several factors, including:

• The severity of your injuries
• The cost of your medical treatment
• The impact of your injuries on your ability to work
• The degree of the defendant’s negligence
• The available insurance coverage

While it’s impossible to predict the exact value of your case without a thorough investigation, trucking accident cases often result in significant settlements or verdicts due to the catastrophic nature of the injuries involved.

9. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you were partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you were more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.

For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. If you were found to be 51% at fault, you would not be entitled to any compensation.

10. How long will my case take to resolve?

The timeline for resolving a pedestrian-truck accident case varies depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of your injuries, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Some cases settle within a few months, while others may take years to resolve. At Attorney911, we work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while ensuring you receive fair compensation.

Additional Resources

For more information on trucking accidents and your legal rights, check out these resources from Attorney911:

• The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries: Learn about the unique challenges of trucking accident cases and how to protect your rights.
• Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?: Understand your legal options after a trucking accident.
• The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents: A comprehensive overview of commercial truck accidents and the legal process.
• Truck Tire Blowouts and When You Need a Lawyer: Learn about the dangers of tire blowouts and how to hold trucking companies accountable.
• What Should You Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?: Protect your rights by knowing what not to say to insurance companies after an accident.

Final Thoughts

Trucking accidents are among the most devastating types of crashes, particularly when they involve pedestrians. The size and weight of commercial trucks mean that even a moment of negligence can have catastrophic consequences. Stephanie Madzy’s death is a tragic reminder of the importance of holding trucking companies and drivers accountable for their actions.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. At Attorney911, we’re committed to fighting for victims of trucking negligence. We know how to investigate these cases, preserve critical evidence, and secure the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re here to help you navigate this difficult time and fight for the justice you deserve. Don’t let the trucking company get away with negligence—hold them accountable and secure the compensation you need to move forward.