Tragic Crash in Island Park Claims Seven Lives
ISLAND PARK — A devastating crash on Thursday evening resulted in the deaths of seven individuals and left several others injured. The accident involved a Dodge Ram pickup truck and a Mercedes tour van, with both vehicles catching fire upon impact. Idaho State Police reported that three occupants of the van were airlifted to hospitals, while five others were taken to Madison Memorial Hospital, with two admitted and later discharged by Sunday.
The tour van was carrying 12 Chinese nationals and one Italian national, en route to Yellowstone National Park as part of an excursion organized by Ctour Holiday, a prominent tour operator. The driver of the van, licensed in California, and the truck driver, 25-year-old Isaiah Moreno of Humble, Texas, were also caught in the tragic incident.
Investigation details reveal that the Dodge crossed the center line and struck the eastbound van, but the reasons for this maneuver remain unclear. The Idaho State Police have initiated a reconstruction of the crash, and due to the commercial nature of the vehicles involved, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is also conducting an independent investigation.
"NTSB personnel have visited the scene and are reviewing evidence," the police stated. "While we share information, both agencies are conducting their investigations separately."
Idaho State Police Sgt. Blake Higley expressed heartfelt condolences for the families affected, praising the brave efforts of passersby and first responders who assisted at the chaotic scene.
The deceased will be transported to the Ada County Coroner’s Office for autopsies and formal identification, while authorities continue to liaise with Ctour Holiday and the consulates of China and Italy as investigations progress.
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