Pickup Truck Plunges into Payette River Following Crash on SH-55 Near Cascade
A pickup truck fell into the North Fork of the Payette River after a collision on State Highway 55 north of Cascade on Sunday afternoon.
The incident occurred near milepost 93.5 at approximately 3 p.m., during busy weekend traffic. Authorities reported that a southbound green Dodge Ram pickup veered into the northbound lane and collided with another vehicle before leaving the roadway and entering the river.
Witnesses observed at least one individual exit the pickup, subsequently being swept downstream. Reports suggest there may have been additional occupants in the vehicle.
The second vehicle involved had three adults aboard, all of whom sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene.
Emergency responders, including swift water rescue teams and local law enforcement, quickly arrived to conduct search efforts along the river. However, high water levels and a swift current hindered access to the submerged pickup.
Recovery operations will continue once conditions permit, potentially involving measures to lower the river's water level, which may occur as soon as Monday.
Trooper Richard Knapp commented, “The swift current, high water levels, and challenging conditions have made this a complex response.”
Traffic on SH-55 was temporarily halted but has since reopened. Idaho State Police are still confirming the number and identities of individuals involved.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact ISP Dispatch at 208-846-7500.