Tony McCollum, 68, died after being hit by a car early on April 10, 2026, and the Odessa community is in grief. Officers were sent to the 1200 block of West 2nd Street at around 9:19 a.m., according to the Odessa Police Department, in response to allegations of a car-pedestrian incident.
Investigators determined that a white Chevrolet Express van was traveling eastbound along West 2nd Street when McCollum attempted to cross the roadway heading north. Police stated that McCollum failed to yield the right of way before stepping into the path of the van, resulting in the collision.
Emergency personnel arrived quickly and attempted to render aid, but McCollum was pronounced deceased at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. Authorities confirmed that next of kin were notified shortly after the incident.
The crash prompted a temporary closure of West 2nd Street between Belmont and Whitaker as investigators documented the scene and collected evidence. Police emphasized that the van was traveling eastbound at the time of impact and that the pedestrian entered the roadway unexpectedly.
Detectives are continuing to review the circumstances surrounding the collision, including roadway conditions and witness statements. Officials stated that the investigation remains active, though no signs of impairment or criminal activity by the driver have been reported at this stage.
McCollum’s death has deeply affected the Odessa community, with residents expressing sympathy for his family following the sudden and tragic loss. Local authorities have urged drivers and pedestrians alike to exercise caution along busy corridors such as West 2nd Street as the investigation continues.