A quiet New Year’s Day in Putnam County ended in heartbreak after a well-known and respected pastor lost his life in a tragic accident involving a pickup truck. Officials confirmed that 44-year-old Sam Pierson Jr., of Hurricane, died Thursday evening after the vehicle he was working on fell and pinned him underneath.
According to Hurricane Mayor Scott Edwards, emergency crews were dispatched to a home on Virginia Avenue around 5 p.m. after receiving a trauma call. Hurricane police officers, firefighters, and EMS rushed to the scene in hopes of saving Pierson’s life. Despite their efforts, lifesaving measures were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mayor Edwards said Pierson was found trapped beneath a pickup truck. Details about how the vehicle fell have not been released, and officials have not said whether the truck was supported by a jack or other equipment at the time of the accident. The incident remains under review as authorities work to fully understand what happened.
The loss has sent shockwaves through the Hurricane and South Charleston communities, where Pierson was widely known for his faith, leadership, and compassion. He served as the lead pastor of Grace Church in South Charleston, where he touched countless lives through his preaching, counseling, and community outreach. Many described him as a devoted pastor, loving family man, and trusted friend.
Following the tragic news, the West Virginia South District Church of the Nazarene took to social media to ask for prayers and support for Pierson’s family. In a heartfelt message, the organization urged the community to come together during this painful time. “Pray for God’s peace, comfort and sustaining presence to be especially near to them in these incredibly difficult hours and days,” the post read. “Thank you for standing together as a district family and lifting this dear family before the Lord.”
As the New Year begins, Pierson’s sudden death is a painful reminder of how quickly life can change. Friends, church members, and community leaders continue to share memories and messages of love, remembering a man who dedicated his life to serving others. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, but community members say his legacy of faith and kindness will live on through the many lives he impacted.
