Seven Killed in Fiery Idaho Crash as Tour Van Collides with Pickup Truck

A devastating road accident near Island Park, Idaho, has claimed the lives of seven individuals after a tour van collided with a pickup truck, igniting a massive fire on Highway 20.

The crash occurred around 7:15 p.m. Thursday evening, close to milepost 399 near Henrys Lake. Idaho State Police confirmed that six passengers from the Mercedes tour van and the driver of a Dodge Ram pickup were killed in the collision. The van was reportedly transporting a tour group and had 14 people on board.

Following the crash, both vehicles caught fire, creating a massive fireball that witnesses said erupted shortly after the impact. Emergency crews, including ambulances and helicopters, arrived swiftly at the scene to handle the “severe injuries” reported. Authorities noted that some victims were seen walking away from the burning wreckage, including a child covered in a blanket.

Eyewitness Roger Merrill from Ridby, Idaho, who was driving behind the accident, claimed on Facebook that the fire started roughly 10 to 15 minutes after the collision. His video footage revealed a van and red pickup truck engulfed in flames, with thick black smoke rising into the sky.

Authorities have sealed off US Highway 20 in both directions as the investigation continues. The Fremont County Coroner’s Office will release the identities of the deceased once their families have been notified. There is currently no timeline for when the highway—between mileposts 399 and 406—will reopen, and drivers are being urged to avoid the area and expect delays.

In an official statement, Idaho State Police said, “The preliminary investigation indicates the collision involved a Dodge Ram pickup and a Mercedes passenger van, both of which caught fire after the crash… Tragically, seven individuals have died because of the crash. Six were occupants of the van, and the driver of the pickup.”

Due to the severity of the crash, air ambulances and multiple ground units were deployed to assist.

This is a developing story. Stay connected for further updates.