Boise, Idaho — A tragic accident on U.S. Highway 20 near Henry’s Lake State Park has claimed the lives of seven individuals and left eight others injured. The collision, which occurred just before 7:15 p.m. Thursday, involved a pickup truck and a tour van heading toward Yellowstone National Park. Witnesses at the scene reported flames engulfing both vehicles amid clear weather conditions.
The Idaho State Police have confirmed that the driver of the pickup truck, identified as Isaih Moreno, 25, of Humble, Texas, was among the deceased. The identities of the six passengers in the van, which was transporting a tour group, are still being confirmed. Authorities have indicated that this process may take some time.
The tour van was carrying 14 people at the time of the crash. Those who survived were quickly transported to nearby hospitals, with two individuals flown to a facility in Idaho Falls and one transported to Bozeman, Montana. Officials have not released specific information about their conditions, though it is reported that some injuries are not life-threatening.
Local resident Roger Merrill witnessed the aftermath of the accident as he drove home. He described the scene, noting that bystanders were attempting to assist survivors while flames erupted from the wreckage. Merrill remarked on the challenges of navigating that highway, especially given its role as a major route for tourists heading to Yellowstone.
“This highway is extremely dangerous because it leads directly to one of the busiest national parks,” he said. “I often see tourist vans here.” Merrill shared video footage capturing the smoke that blanketed the area, expressing concern about the delays in emergency response due to the remote location.
Authorities reported that a Fremont County sheriff’s deputy was one of the first to arrive at the scene, assisting injured passengers from the burning van. Despite the immediate response, those on the highway faced an alarming wait for additional emergency help.
In light of the accident, the Idaho Transportation Department has plans for safety improvements aimed at reducing the severity of crashes along this stretch of road, although the project is still in its early research and planning phases. According to agency traffic data, approximately 10,500 vehicles traverse this highway daily.
As the investigation continues, local officials and law enforcement are gathering information to determine the precise causes of this fatal incident. The community remains in shock over the loss of life and the impact on the victims’ families.