PRINEVILLE, OR — October 20, 2026 Thomas Sampson, a 44-year-old resident of Madras, Oregon, died after being struck by a vehicle on McKay Creek Road in Crook County, authorities reported.
The collision occurred early Tuesday morning. At approximately 5:06 a.m., a motorist contacted emergency dispatchers after spotting a man lying in a field and expressing concern that he was not breathing.
Deputies with the Crook County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Prineville Police Department responded to the scene. Investigators determined that Sampson had been walking south along McKay Creek Road when a northbound vehicle hit him.
According to authorities, Sampson appeared to be collecting cans near the roadside. The vehicle was reportedly traveling toward a logging worksite at an estimated 50 to 55 mph.
The driver stopped after the collision, contacted 911 and cooperated with responding officers. Authorities said the motorist was uninjured and investigators found no evidence of intoxication.
Sampson’s next of kin were notified. The investigation remains ongoing.
