One Killed in Four-Vehicle Crash on U.S. Highway 12

Idaho State Police investigate fatal accident near Lewiston

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

A 71-year-old Orofino man died following a four-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 12 near Lewiston, Idaho on the evening of February 27. The accident occurred when a 2005 Toyota Tacoma driven by a juvenile male attempted to pass a 2005 Ford F-150 driven by the Orofino man, causing a collision that led to the Ford crossing into oncoming traffic and striking a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado.

Why it matters

Fatal car crashes on rural highways are an ongoing public safety concern, especially when multiple vehicles are involved. This incident highlights the need for safe driving practices and careful maneuvering on two-lane roads.

The details

According to Idaho State Police, the crash occurred around 8:08 p.m. on February 27 at milepost 15.3 on U.S. Highway 12. The juvenile driver of the Toyota Tacoma was attempting to pass the Ford F-150 when he entered the westbound lane, causing the Ford to lose control, cross the center line, and collide with the westbound Chevrolet Silverado. The 71-year-old Orofino man driving the Ford died from his injuries at the scene.

  • The crash occurred at approximately 8:08 p.m. on February 27.
  • The 71-year-old Orofino man died from his injuries at the scene.

The players

Juvenile male

The driver of the 2005 Toyota Tacoma that attempted to pass the Ford F-150.

71-year-old Orofino man

The driver of the 2005 Ford F-150 who was killed in the crash.

59-year-old Texas man

The driver of the 2015 semi tractor-trailer that was traveling westbound on U.S. Highway 12.

47-year-old Kellogg man

The driver of the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado that was struck by the Ford F-150.

Idaho State Police

The law enforcement agency that investigated the fatal crash.

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The takeaway

This tragic accident on a rural highway underscores the importance of safe driving practices, especially when passing other vehicles. It also highlights the need for continued efforts to improve road safety and reduce fatal crashes on two-lane roads.