A devastating collision near Yellowstone National Park last week claimed seven lives after a pickup truck crossed the center line of U.S. Highway 20 and struck a tour van, according to an Idaho State Police investigation. The crash occurred Thursday evening near Henry’s Lake State Park in eastern Idaho, approximately 16 miles west of Yellowstone’s western entrance.
The Dodge Ram pickup truck, driven by 25-year-old Isaih Moreno from Humble, Texas, was traveling west when it veered into oncoming traffic and collided with a Mercedes passenger van headed east toward Yellowstone. The van was carrying 12 Chinese tourists, one Italian tourist, and a driver. Five Chinese tourists, the Italian tourist, and Moreno lost their lives in the crash. The remaining eight van occupants suffered injuries.
Both vehicles caught fire following the impact, complicating the investigation. DNA testing will be required to identify some of the victims, according to police. The Idaho State Police continue to investigate the cause of Moreno veering into oncoming traffic, with support from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) due to the crash’s severity and the involvement of a commercial vehicle. NTSB personnel have visited the crash site and are reviewing evidence.
The incident occurred under clear weather conditions, as shown in video footage from the scene. This tragic accident highlights the ongoing risks associated with vehicular traffic near popular tourist destinations like Yellowstone National Park. The park remains a significant attraction for international visitors, with 36% of international air arrivals to the U.S. listing visits to national parks and monuments as their top leisure activity, according to the International Trade Administration.
