Montana Highway Patrol Releases Details in Fatal I-15 Crash Near Dillon That Claimed 22-Year-Old Driver

DILLON, Mont. — The Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) has released additional information regarding the fatal crash on Interstate 15 near Dillon, Montana, that occurred on Sunday, July 5, claiming the life of a 22-year-old driver.

According to the Montana Highway Patrol, a 22-year-old man was driving a gray Toyota Tundra southbound on Interstate 15 near Mile Marker 85, just North of Dillon, when the crash occurred.

Investigators say the pickup was attempting to overtake another vehicle traveling in the driving lane when the Toyota drifted off the left side of the interstate. The driver then overcorrected while attempting to re-enter the roadway, causing the pickup to begin skidding.

The Toyota crossed both southbound lanes before striking the guardrail head-on along the right side of the roadway.

The force of the collision ripped open the driver's side door, ejecting the driver from the vehicle. According to the Montana Highway Patrol, the driver was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Drugs, alcohol, and speed are not suspected factors.

After the driver was ejected, the Toyota rolled and struck the driver before coming to rest.

Emergency crews, including the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department, Beaverhead Sheriffs Office, Beaverhead Ambulance, and the Montana Highway Patrol, responded to the scene. The driver was transported by ambulance to Barrett Memorial Hospital in Dillon, where he was later pronounced deceased.

The crash remains under investigation by the Montana Highway Patrol.

Seatbelt Safety Reminder

The Montana Highway Patrol reminds motorists that wearing a seatbelt remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a crash. According to investigators, the driver in this incident was not restrained when the vehicle left the roadway.

Southwestern Montana News extends its condolences to the family and friends affected by this tragic crash.