Prineville priest recovering after being struck by car in crosswalk

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A 71-year-old Prineville man seriously injured after being struck by a vehicle in a crosswalk Saturday, Oct. 3, has been identified by his church as Father Joseph Kunnelaya, who is recovering after surgery on his left leg.

In an update posted on Facebook, St. Joseph Catholic Church of Prineville said Kunnelaya came through surgery and doctors are hopeful he can move out of the intensive care unit soon.

A post on the Church's Facebook said he was conscious and in good spirits, and doctors were not concerned about a brain injury. His shoulder also was injured but is healing on its own, the post said.

A Prineville Police officer witnessed the collision at approximately 8:44 a.m. at the intersection of North Main Street and Northeast 7th Street.

Police said the pedestrian was walking south along North Main Street and crossing Northeast 7th Street when a vehicle turning east onto Northeast 7th Street struck him.

He was flown to St. Charles Bend for emergency medical treatment and was initially reported to be in critical condition.

The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. Officers found no indication that impairment was a factor. Police said sun glare and other environmental conditions may have reduced the driver's visibility and contributed to the collision.

The Prineville Police Department investigated with assistance from the Crook County Sheriff's Office.

The church said visitors were not allowed at the time of its initial post. Anyone wishing to send Kunnelaya a card can drop it off or mail it to the parish office, which will deliver it to him. The church also asked for continued prayers for him, his family and the medical staff caring for him.