Linn County, OR – Pedestrian Killed in Semi-Truck Collision on I-5/MP 216

Linn County, OR (December 18, 2024) – A tragic vehicle-versus-pedestrian accident claimed the life of a Harrisburg man on Tuesday morning, December 17, near milepost 216 on I-5. Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to the scene around 6:30 a.m. after receiving reports of a pedestrian struck by a semi-truck.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Timothy Alan Vinton Jr., 56, of Harrisburg, was driving a southbound Kenworth semi-truck when he struck Ronald Hope Cole Jr., 61, who was on the roadway for unknown reasons. Despite immediate efforts by responders, Cole Jr. was pronounced dead at the scene. Vinton Jr. did not sustain any injuries. Investigators are working to determine why Cole Jr. was on the highway and are asking witnesses or anyone with information to contact OSP’s Northern Command Center. This tragic incident remains under investigation.

Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time.