Pedestrian struck and killed in La Porte, IN

LA PORTE, Ind. (WLS) -- A pedestrian was killed late Tuesday night after being struck by a vehicle in La Porte, Indiana.

The La Porte County Sheriff's Department said Steven Kinola Jr., 36, of Michigan City, was crossing the SR 39 at 1000 N when a driver struck him. He was found dead on the east side of SR 39 and pronounced at the scene at 10:24 p.m. by the La Porte County Coroner.

The driver of the 2000 Chevrolet truck that struck the victim has been identified as 26-year-old Russell Pumford III, of Michigan City. Pumford, who was on his way to work at the time and tested negative for alcohol, told authorities the victim ran suddenly into the roadway and he was unable to avoid striking him.

The La Porte County Sheriff's Department is continuing to investigate this case. At this time, there are no apparent criminal violations. Kinola's blood alcohol level was reported to be .18 percent, which is believes to be a factor in the investigation.