BEND, OR -- A 69-year-old Tumalo-area man was killed Friday evening, when he was struck by a pickup on Cline Falls Highway. Michael Porter crossed the street to get his mail, just after 5 p.m. One witness told the Sheriff’s office he’d nearly hit Porter, who was bent over in the middle of the highway, possible retrieving dropped mail. Another driver then struck the man.
A passing nurse provided immediate medical attention, but Porter died at the scene. The driver, 59-year-old Lance Hitson of Bend, is cooperating with investigators. Neither alcohol nor distracted driving are thought to have been factors.
The Sheriff’s Office believes Porter’s dark clothing and position in the roadway contributed to the incident.
