A devastating collision between a pickup truck and a tour van near Yellowstone National Park last week resulted in seven fatalities after the pickup truck crossed the highway’s center line and struck the van, according to Idaho State Police.
Crash Details
The crash occurred on Thursday, May 1, 2025, near Henry’s Lake State Park in eastern Idaho, approximately 16 miles west of Yellowstone National Park. Idaho State Police investigators determined that a Dodge Ram pickup truck traveling west on U.S. Highway 20 crossed the center line and collided with a Mercedes passenger van traveling east toward Yellowstone.
The van was carrying a group of twelve Chinese tourists, one Italian tourist, and their driver. The crash claimed the lives of five Chinese tourists, the Italian tourist, and the pickup truck driver, Isaih Moreno, 25, from Humble, Texas. The other eight occupants of the van were injured.
Investigation and Aftermath
Idaho State Police are continuing to investigate the cause of the pickup truck crossing into oncoming traffic. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is also conducting an independent investigation due to the involvement of a commercial vehicle and the severity of the crash. NTSB personnel have visited the crash site and are reviewing evidence.
The collision resulted in both vehicles catching fire, complicating the identification process. DNA testing will be required to identify some of the victims, according to police statements.
This tragic incident highlights the importance of road safety, particularly in areas popular with international tourists, such as Yellowstone National Park. According to recent data from the International Trade Administration, 36% of international visitors to the U.S. list visiting national parks and monuments as their primary leisure activity.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to determine the exact circumstances leading to the fatal crash.
