Deadly Collision Near Yellowstone National Park
A devastating crash between a pickup truck and a tour van near Yellowstone National Park in eastern Idaho last week resulted in seven fatalities after the pickup truck crossed the highway’s center line, according to Idaho State Police.
The collision occurred on Thursday, May 1, 2025, near Henry’s Lake State Park on U.S. Highway 20. Investigating troopers determined that the Dodge Ram pickup truck was traveling west when it crossed into the eastbound lane and struck a Mercedes passenger van head-on. The van was carrying a group of tourists, including twelve Chinese nationals and one Italian tourist, along with their driver.
The crash claimed the lives of five Chinese tourists, the Italian tourist, and the pickup truck driver, identified as 25-year-old Isaih Moreno from Humble, Texas. The remaining eight occupants of the van were injured. Both vehicles caught fire upon impact, complicating the identification process, which will require DNA test results for some victims.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an independent investigation into the crash, given its severity and the involvement of a commercial vehicle. NTSB personnel have visited the crash site and are reviewing evidence.
The incident has drawn attention due to its proximity to Yellowstone National Park, a popular destination for international visitors. According to recent data from the International Trade Administration, 36% of international visitors to the U.S. list visits to national parks and monuments as their primary leisure activity.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on determining the cause that led the pickup truck to veer into oncoming traffic.
