SODA SPRINGS, ID — A dust storm near Soda Springs led to a five-vehicle crash on Highway 34 late Wednesday afternoon, sending three people to the hospital and shutting the road for about three hours. Idaho State Police said the wreck happened at 4:44 p.m. on northbound State Highway 34.
How the wreck unfolded
State police said drivers had stopped on the highway to wait out the blowing dust when a 2024 Toyota Prius tried to pass several vehicles. As the Prius moved back toward the northbound lane, it blocked the southbound lane.
A 2005 Dodge Ram then tried to go around the stopped traffic, sideswiped a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado and hit the Prius, according to investigators. The impact also caused a 1996 Dodge Dakota to strike a 2005 Acura that had been stopped ahead.
Three taken to hospital
All three people in the Prius were transported by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment. They were identified by police only as the 49-year-old driver from Etna, Wyoming, along with a 20-year-old man and a 50-year-old woman, also from Etna.
Authorities said their names and conditions have not been released. Everyone involved in the crash except one occupant of the Prius was wearing a seat belt, police said.
Road closed for hours
Highway 34 remained blocked for roughly three hours while crews dealt with the crash and cleared the scene. The shutdown affected traffic north of Soda Springs during the late afternoon and evening travel period.
Idaho State Police said they were helped at the scene by the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office, Soda Springs Police Department and Caribou County EMS.
Investigation continues
State police said the crash is still under investigation. For now, the case appears tied to the sudden loss of visibility and the risky decisions drivers made while trying to move through stopped traffic in the dust storm.
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