Local News
One victim killed after fiery crash near Henrys Lake in Island Park identified
Idaho State Police have confirmed the identity of one of the seven individuals killed in a devastating two-vehicle crash near Henrys Lake in eastern Idaho.
The collision occurred Thursday evening, April 24, 2025, at approximately 7:15 p.m., on U.S. Highway 20 near mile marker 399, just outside of Henrys Lake State Park.
According to a statement released by Idaho State Police, a Dodge Ram pickup truck traveling westbound collided head-on with an eastbound Mercedes passenger van carrying a group of tourists en route to Yellowstone National Park.
The impact of the crash caused both vehicles to catch fire.
The van was reportedly transporting 14 individuals as part of a tour group.
Tragically, six passengers inside the van and the driver of the pickup truck were pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency medical teams quickly responded, deploying an air ambulance along with other ground and air resources due to the severity of the injuries.
Three of the surviving occupants were airlifted to hospitals in Bozeman, Montana, and Idaho Falls for treatment.
Their current conditions have not been released.
The Fremont County Coroner’s Office has identified one of the deceased as 25-year-old Isaih Moreno of Humble, Texas.
Authorities have withheld the names of the other six victims pending notification of their next of kin.
Due to the complexity of the incident and the extent of the fire damage, officials say the identification process may take additional time.
The Fremont County Coroner will determine the official cause and manner of death for all victims.
U.S. Highway 20 remained closed for several hours Thursday night as investigators examined the scene, documented evidence, and began the process of reconstructing the sequence of events leading up to the deadly crash.
Idaho State Police are continuing to investigate the incident and have not yet released information on the possible cause of the collision.
Further updates will be provided as new details become available.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.