A pedestrian was struck and killed by a train traveling southbound between E. Gentry Ave. and N.E. Main St. at 5:54 a.m. on March 2, according to the Checotah Police officer Terry Vanzant.

Theodore Paul Harker, 51, of Checotah, allegedly stepped in front of the train and was knocked back several feet before coming to rest approximately 266 feet north of E. Gentry Ave. and seven feet east of the eastern edge of the railroad track.

Harker suffered severe injuries to his legs, head, trunk and arms and was pronounced dead at the scene., Vanzant said.

Harker’s family stated that he had recently turned his life around and was a wonderful, God-fearing man who would have done anything for anyone and that’s how they wish to remember him.