ISLAND PARK, ID — Authorities Identify One Victim in Fiery Crash That Killed Seven Near Henrys Lake
In a tragic incident near Henrys Lake, Idaho, a devastating head-on collision resulted in the deaths of seven individuals on the evening of Thursday, April 24, 2025. The crash occurred at approximately 7:15 p.m. on U.S. Highway 20, near mile marker 399, just outside the Henrys Lake State Park, an area frequented by tourists traveling to nearby Yellowstone National Park.
The Accident and Its Impact
According to a statement released by Idaho State Police, the deadly crash involved two vehicles: a Dodge Ram pickup truck traveling westbound and a Mercedes passenger van, which was carrying a group of tourists on their way to Yellowstone. The pickup truck reportedly veered into the eastbound lane, colliding head-on with the van. The force of the collision caused a fiery explosion that engulfed both vehicles, leaving little chance for survivors.
The horrific accident shocked the local community and drew the attention of authorities across the state. The Fremont County Coroner’s Office, after conducting an investigation, confirmed the identity of one of the victims as 25-year-old Isaih Moreno of Humble, Texas. Moreno’s family and friends have been left reeling from the loss, as he was part of the tourist group making the trip to the famed national park.
The Victims and Their Families
While the identity of only one victim has been publicly confirmed as of the latest report, authorities have indicated that all seven individuals involved in the crash have tragically passed away. Their names have yet to be released, pending notification of next-of-kin. The victims, who were in the van, were reportedly a group of tourists, and early reports indicate that they were traveling from various parts of the United States.
Isaih Moreno, the 25-year-old identified victim, was part of the group, but his loss has already been deeply felt by those who knew him. Moreno, a resident of Humble, Texas, was described as a young man with a passion for exploring the outdoors. His social media profiles indicate that he had traveled extensively before, and Yellowstone was likely just one of many destinations he sought to experience. Friends and family have begun to share their condolences, remembering him as a kind and adventurous spirit.
Authorities have not yet provided the names or further details on the remaining victims, but their families are undoubtedly experiencing the same shock and grief that Moreno’s loved ones are now facing. This tragedy has left a small community in eastern Idaho shaken, and the effects of such a loss are sure to ripple through the local area for weeks, if not months.
A Horrifying Scene and Ongoing Investigation
The crash took place in an area known for its scenic beauty and popularity among tourists. Henrys Lake, located just outside the Henrys Lake State Park, draws visitors who are either passing through on their way to Yellowstone or staying in the area for outdoor recreation, including fishing and hiking. The stretch of U.S. Highway 20 where the crash occurred is heavily traveled, particularly during the spring and summer months when Yellowstone sees a surge in visitors.
Emergency responders arrived on the scene shortly after the crash and found the vehicles completely engulfed in flames. The fire made it difficult for responders to extract the victims from the wreckage, and the intensity of the blaze likely contributed to the high death toll. Local fire departments, law enforcement, and rescue teams worked tirelessly to clear the area and investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The Idaho State Police have launched an ongoing investigation into the incident. At present, the exact cause of the crash remains unclear. Preliminary reports suggest that a combination of factors may have played a role, including potential mechanical failure, driver error, or road conditions. Authorities are reviewing all possibilities to determine what led to this deadly collision. Witness statements, traffic camera footage, and vehicle data are all being examined to piece together a clear sequence of events.
The Community’s Response
In the wake of the tragedy, residents of Island Park and the surrounding areas have come together to support the victims’ families and the emergency responders involved in the harrowing recovery efforts. Local businesses have begun to offer support services, including setting up donation drives and providing meals for the affected families. Many in the community have expressed their sadness over the event, with many sharing their thoughts on social media, offering prayers for the families of the victims.
A vigil is planned to take place in Island Park next week, where members of the community will gather to honor the victims and show support for their grieving families. The local fire department, as well as several regional and state agencies, have also expressed their condolences, with many emphasizing the importance of coming together during times of crisis.
The Road to Recovery and Remembrance
As the investigation continues, questions remain about what led to the crash and whether it could have been prevented. The family and friends of those lost are left with the painful task of coming to terms with the abrupt end to what should have been a joyful and memorable trip to one of the country’s most beloved national parks.
For now, the focus of authorities remains on gathering the necessary details to understand the causes of the crash. Meanwhile, the memories of those who lost their lives will remain in the hearts of those who knew them, and the community will continue to mourn their loss, while also offering support to those left behind.
This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictability of the roads we travel. As authorities work to uncover more about what led to the crash, the families of the victims, as well as the broader community of Island Park and beyond, are left to heal and to remember those who were lost.