Island Park, Idaho — Tragic Yellowstone Crash That Killed Seven Blamed on Drunk Driver with BAC Over Twice Legal Limit
A horrific crash that occurred near Yellowstone National Park earlier this month, claiming the lives of seven individuals, has been attributed to drunk driving, officials announced Friday. The devastating May 1 accident, which took place on U.S. Highway 20 near Henry’s Lake, Idaho, involved a head-on collision between a pickup truck and a passenger van carrying international tourists. Investigators now confirm that the at-fault driver, Isaih Moreno, had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.20—more than twice the legal limit in Idaho.
A Scenic Drive Turns Tragic
According to the Idaho State Police (ISP), Moreno was behind the wheel of a Dodge Ram pickup truck traveling along the scenic corridor near the Idaho-Montana border, a gateway for thousands of visitors to Yellowstone National Park. The truck collided with a passenger van carrying 14 people, including dozen foreign nationals from China and Italy, just west of Henry’s Lake.
The impact was catastrophic. Both vehicles caught fire, engulfed in flames before first responders could arrive. Despite desperate efforts from bystanders and emergency personnel, seven people perished at the scene, including Isaih Moreno and six occupants of the van. Others were injured and transported to nearby hospitals, their conditions ranging from stable to critical.
Autopsy Results Confirm Alcohol Involvement
Toxicology reports released by the Fremont County Coroner’s Office and confirmed by Idaho State Police reveal that Moreno’s BAC measured 0.20. In Idaho, the legal limit is 0.08, making Moreno’s level of intoxication more than double what the law permits.
“This tragedy should be a wake-up call,” said ISP Captain Chris Weadick during a press briefing. “No one plans to cause a crash or take a life when they get behind the wheel, but choices have consequences. Impaired driving isn’t just illegal — it’s deadly. If you see someone unfit to drive, speak up. Lives depend on it.”
A Global Loss
The magnitude of this crash is not only a local tragedy but also an international one. Several of the victims were visitors from overseas, part of a tour group exploring the natural wonders of the American West. The tour company involved has since released a statement expressing heartbreak and pledging support to the families of the deceased.
“We are devastated by this senseless loss of life,” the company said. “Our thoughts are with the victims’ families and loved ones as they endure unimaginable grief far from home.”
The Chinese and Italian embassies have been working with U.S. authorities to assist with identification, repatriation of remains, and support for surviving victims and their families.
Investigation and Aftermath
The Idaho State Police, in collaboration with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and local authorities, continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the crash. Authorities are examining road conditions, vehicle data, and witness testimony to piece together a timeline of events.
Highway 20 is a popular route for tourists and commercial traffic alike, especially during the spring and summer seasons. Safety advocates are now calling for increased patrols, stricter DUI enforcement, and better public awareness campaigns.
Remembering the Victims
Vigils have been held in Island Park and in the victims’ home countries, remembering the lives lost on what should have been a joyful journey. Memorial flowers and photographs have been left near the site of the collision as locals and tourists alike pay their respects.
One local resident who witnessed the aftermath described the scene as “the worst thing I’ve ever seen” and emphasized the importance of driver responsibility. “People need to understand how one reckless decision can destroy so many lives,” they said.
Call to Action
This crash serves as a harrowing reminder of the deadly consequences of impaired driving. Law enforcement and public health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and to never let someone drive under the influence.
“We can’t bring these lives back,” said Capt. Weadick. “But we can honor them by committing to safer roads and holding ourselves—and each other—accountable.”
Anyone with additional information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Idaho State Police.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, help is available. Please call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).