Fatal Collision near Yellowstone National Park
A devastating crash between a pickup truck and a tour van near Yellowstone National Park in Idaho has resulted in seven fatalities, according to Idaho State Police. The incident occurred on Thursday, May 1, 2025, near Henry’s Lake State Park in eastern Idaho.
Investigators have determined that the Dodge Ram pickup truck, driven by 25-year-old Isaih Moreno from Humble, Texas, crossed the center line on U.S. Highway 20 and collided with the Mercedes passenger van. The van was carrying 12 Chinese tourists, one Italian tourist, and a driver, headed towards Yellowstone.
The crash claimed the lives of five Chinese tourists, the Italian tourist, and Moreno. The driver of the van and eight other passengers were injured. Both vehicles caught fire upon impact, complicating identification efforts. DNA tests will be required to identify some of the victims.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an independent investigation into the incident, given its severity and the involvement of a commercial vehicle. NTSB personnel have visited the crash site and are reviewing evidence.
Weather conditions at the time of the accident were clear, according to video footage from the scene. The truck was traveling westbound while the van was heading eastbound towards Yellowstone when the collision occurred.
This tragic incident highlights the importance of road safety, particularly in areas popular with tourists, such as near national parks. The International Trade Administration reports that 36% of international visitors to the U.S. list visits to national parks and monuments as their top leisure activity.
