Abigail Sampey, 79, of Luling, died after she was struck from behind while walking near her home on West Heather Drive on November 3, 2026. The St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office says she had just left her driveway for an afternoon walk. She was airlifted to a hospital and later died.
Deputies responded just before 3 p.m. to the 300 block of West Heather Drive. According to the sheriff’s preliminary account, Sandra Kinler, 64, was driving a black Jeep Wrangler eastbound behind Sampey, who was also heading east along the right edge of the road. Investigators say available video depicts the Jeep approaching the pedestrian without an apparent avoiding action. That is the sheriff’s reported interpretation of video, not a final civil finding.
Kinler was arrested on one count of negligent homicide. The charge is an allegation, not a conviction. Investigators collected toxicology samples, but results have not been released; impairment must not be assumed.
Why the Existing Video Matters in This Particular Collision
This case differs from an intersection crash in which investigators are still trying to learn the direction of travel. The sheriff’s office has already described surveillance evidence that may bear on the driver’s view ahead and any response. The original file, camera perspective, field of view and timestamps should be preserved. A short video excerpt alone may not show the Jeep’s entire approach or resolve every reconstruction question.
Evidence to Preserve on West Heather Drive
Original surveillance and witnesses: Obtain full-resolution footage from the relevant camera and any neighboring views, including minutes before impact. Record the camera’s location and time accuracy, any obstructions, and the locations of witnesses along the residential street.
Jeep and street measurements: Preserve the black Jeep Wrangler for photographs, damage examination and any available braking or electronic data. Document the roadway edge where Sampey walked, driveway locations, lane width, sight distance and parked vehicles, if any. The sheriff’s account mentions an unobstructed view, but that should be tested against measurements rather than assumed proved.
Investigation and insurance records: Preserve the initial investigative photographs and witness statements while toxicology and criminal proceedings continue. Criminal charges and civil fault are assessed under different standards. The family’s civil options also require examining available insurance and any comparative-fault issues on the actual evidence.
For Abigail Sampey’s Family
The family does not need to determine whether a claim exists before ensuring video and vehicle evidence are protected. If retained, Babcock Injury Lawyers would promptly secure original recordings, inspect the roadway and vehicle, and identify applicable policies with litigation in mind from the outset. Our Louisiana wrongful death resources and The Babcock Benefit provide more information. Call (225) 500-5000 or contact Babcock Injury Lawyers online for a confidential consultation. The firm does not claim to represent anyone involved.