The chaotic scene unfolded on Thursday when a Chevy pickup truck and a van carrying 14 tourists were involved in a crash in eastern Idaho. According to Idaho State Police, six passengers in the van and the driver of the pickup truck died as a result of their injuries. The authorities have withheld the identities and nationalities of those who perished while an investigation into the crash proceeds.
Witnesses described the terrifying scene, with local resident Roger Merrill recalling flames and thick smoke emanating from the wreckage. Emergency services were promptly dispatched, and some victims were airlifted to hospitals due to the seriousness of their injuries.
Merrill indicated that the highway, known for its heavy traffic, is often busier during the peak tourist season that coincides with summer months. The collision caused a significant disruption as the road remained closed for approximately seven hours while emergency responders treated victims and cleared the area—located around 16 miles from the entrance to Yellowstone National Park.
This tragic incident highlights the risks associated with high-traffic routes leading into significant tourist destinations. Yellowstone National Park, established as the first national park in the United States, sees around four million visitors annually, with a peak from May through September. The local coroner’s office is expected to release the names of the deceased once their families have been notified.
Witnesses described the terrifying scene, with local resident Roger Merrill recalling flames and thick smoke emanating from the wreckage. Emergency services were promptly dispatched, and some victims were airlifted to hospitals due to the seriousness of their injuries.
Merrill indicated that the highway, known for its heavy traffic, is often busier during the peak tourist season that coincides with summer months. The collision caused a significant disruption as the road remained closed for approximately seven hours while emergency responders treated victims and cleared the area—located around 16 miles from the entrance to Yellowstone National Park.
This tragic incident highlights the risks associated with high-traffic routes leading into significant tourist destinations. Yellowstone National Park, established as the first national park in the United States, sees around four million visitors annually, with a peak from May through September. The local coroner’s office is expected to release the names of the deceased once their families have been notified.
