RIRIE, ID — A head-on collision on U.S. Highway 26 east of Ririe left one man dead Monday evening and sent five others to area hospitals, according to Idaho State Police. Investigators said a sedan crossed into oncoming traffic and struck an SUV carrying six people.
How The Crash Unfolded
State police said the wreck happened around 6:45 p.m. when a westbound 2010 Hyundai Accent driven by 32-year-old Valentin Armenta Algandar of Idaho Falls crossed the centerline and hit an eastbound 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe head-on.
The Tahoe was driven by a 49-year-old woman from Jackson, Wyoming, and carried four passengers: a 24-year-old man from Jackson, a 53-year-old man, a 26-year-old woman, both from Mexico, and a juvenile.
Victim And Injuries
Algandar was pronounced dead at the scene, state police said. The 53-year-old passenger in the Tahoe was hurt badly enough that he had to be flown by emergency helicopter to a local hospital.
The other four people in the SUV were taken by ground ambulance to local hospitals. Authorities said their names and conditions have not been released.
Highway Closed For Hours
The collision shut down Highway 26 for about four and a half hours while emergency crews worked the scene and cleared the roadway. The long closure followed a heavy response from local and state agencies.
Idaho State Police were assisted by the Idaho Transportation Department, Central Fire Department, Idaho Falls Fire Department and the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigation Continues
State police said the crash remains under investigation. No further details have been released about what caused the sedan to cross the centerline or whether any citations have been issued.
Officials have not said when more information might be available.
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