COUNTY LIFE
Sampson jailed on three-count vehicular manslaughter indictment
A Nocona man was arrested on a felony indictment for the death of a Ringgold woman in a one-vehicle accident outside Saint Jo on Feb. 3.
Michael Paul Sampson, 49, Nocona, was charged with a three-count indictment for intoxication manslaughter, manslaughter and negligent homicide in the death of Billie Faye Miller, 65, Ringgold.
The victim was a passenger in Sampson’s 2016 Buick Enclave involved in the accident. According to a Department of Public Safety statement the crash happened at 3:45 a.m. on Feb. 3 on Farm-to-Market 677 South at the Saint Jo City Limits.
Sampson was reportedly driving northeast on FM 677 around a sharp curve. The driver continued straight through the curve and off the roadway vaulting over Dennis Road and continuing through a barbed-wire fence, striking a tree head-on.
His passenger was pronounced dead at the scene from injuries sustained in the crash. Sampson went to Nocona General Hospital with non-incapacitating injuries. The report also notes the roads were wet and neither of the persons were wearing a seat belt.
Sampson was arrested by Nocona Police on a warrant connected with the October indictment. He was booked into the county jail with bond of $150,000. As of Tuesday he remained in jail.
The two manslaughter charges are second degree felonies punishable if convicted by two to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000. The negligent homicide offense is a state jail felony punishable by 180 days to two years in jail and a fine up to $10,000.
Members of the American Legion Post in Nocona are planning a free Family Fun Day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 27 at the post home at 801 W. U.S. Highway 82.
Bring the entire family out to enjoy a bounce house, dunk tank, dart throw, temporary tattoos, balloon toss, plus hot dogs and hamburgers. Kiddos will need an adult with them.
Donations are always welcome, sponsored by American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion.
Fire officials remind residents that fireworks cannot be set off within the city limits of the county’s three incorporated cities of Bowie, Nocona and Saint Jo and violations could lead to a citiation for a Class C misdemeanor carrying a fine of up to $500.
The sale of fireworks runs through midnight on July 4. Fireworks may be discharged out in the country, but be cautious of their use to avoid any wildfire or injury.
In the Bowie area, fireworks may only be legally discharged at Selma Park on Lake Amon G. Carter on July 3 and July 4. Discharge at other times or locations may result in a ticket from city police who patrol the park.
While there is no burn ban on at this time, those using fireworks are urged to exercise caution due to possible wildfires fueled by the dry, windy conditions. Keep water available nearby when using fireworks.
High heat and wind also can create dangerous conditions for fireworks so please exert caution. Those who cause a wildfire can be held liable for any damage or injury.
Are you ready to walk among the giants of the prehistoric world?
Bring the whole family to the Bowie Community Center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 7 for a spectacular, free traveling museum experience.
In this prehistoric museum event get up close with massive dinosaur skulls, incredible fossil replicas, and ancient prehistoric fish and mammals from all over the globe. Hosted by the Friends of the Bowie Public Library, this hands-on exhibit is perfect for future paleontologists of all ages.
The center is located at 413 Pelham Street in Bowie and is completely free and open to the public.This program is made possible in part by a grant from Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, and The Friends of the Bowie Public Library.
Don’t miss this chance to experience the wonders of earth’s history. For more details on the exhibit, visit Dinosaur George Traveling Museum.
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