A wrong-way collision on the south side of the Snake River Bridge left three people hospitalized Tuesday afternoon, including a Twin Falls woman airlifted to a regional trauma center in critical condition, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
Jefferson County Sheriff’s Dispatch received the call at 4:50 p.m. from the 4700 E. area, where a gold 2005 Chevrolet Uplander traveling southbound crossed into oncoming traffic and struck a blue Volkswagen Passat head-on. Investigators have not yet determined why the Uplander drifted into the opposing lane.
Driver in Critical Condition After Airlift
The driver of the Uplander, a 51-year-old Twin Falls woman, suffered critical injuries in the crash. Emergency responders transported her by air ambulance to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center. The severity of her injuries placed her in the most serious category among the three people hurt in the collision.
The Passat carried two occupants from Rexburg — an 18-year-old male driver and a 15-year-old male passenger. Both were taken by ground ambulance to a local hospital. The extent of their injuries had not been released as of the initial report.
This latest incident adds to a troubling pattern of serious crashes on Magic Valley-area roadways. In a separate incident, a Buhl woman was killed on Highway 93 after failing to yield at an intersection, a reminder of the dangers facing drivers throughout the region.
Investigation Ongoing, Road Temporarily Closed
Authorities closed the roadway at the crash scene while crews worked to clear the area. The road was set to reopen once investigators completed their on-scene work. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into what caused the Uplander to cross the center line.
No charges or citations had been announced as of the initial report. The cause of the lane departure remains unknown, and officials have not indicated whether speed, distraction, or medical events played a role.
What Comes Next
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office will continue investigating the collision as it works to determine the circumstances that led to the wrong-way crash. Authorities may release additional information regarding the condition of those hospitalized and whether any citations will be issued once the investigation concludes. Drivers in the area are encouraged to remain alert and exercise caution near bridge crossings and rural highway stretches where head-on collisions can carry particularly severe consequences. For additional Idaho traffic safety and public safety news, visit idahonews.co.