Trucker killed after failing to yield to Union Pacific train, Idaho Sheriff says

Police in Idaho have released more details about a fatal semi truck crash involving a Union Pacific train that occurred late last month.

The crash occurred around 2:30 p.m. on December 29, 2023, at a railroad crossing located at Yale Road and Minidoka Avenue in Blaine County, Idaho, according to a news release from the Blaine County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO).

Officials say that a 46 year old male was operating a 2015 white Freightliner semi truck owned by the 3 String Cattle Company southbound on Yale Road.

The truck driver “failed to yield” to an eastbound Union Pacific train, BCSO said.

Both the truck driver and a 48 year old female truck passenger were ejected in the crash. Neither person was wearing a seatbelt.

The truck driver and passenger were taken to a hospital in Pocatello, Idaho with life-threatening injuries. The truck driver later died from his injuries. The female passenger is listed in critical condition.

“The Blaine County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Minidoka County Sheriff’s Office, Northside and East End Fire Departments’ Emergency Medical Services, Life Flight and Classic Air Ambulances, and Minidoka Memorial Hospital Emergency Response Services for their assistance in this incident. Although it occurred in Blaine County’s jurisdiction, due to the remote location and critical need for an immediate response, Minidoka County agencies took the lead on the crash and investigation. We are extremely grateful for their interagency cooperation,” said Blaine County Sheriff Steve Harkins.