FREMONT COUNTY, Idaho — May 30, 2025 — A crash caused by an impaired driver in Southeast Idaho claimed the lives of seven people and has prompted Idaho law enforcement and transportation officials to renew calls for DUI prevention during the summer travel season.
The Idaho State Police (ISP) confirmed that Isaiah Moreno, 25, of Humble, Texas, was driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.20 — more than twice the legal limit of 0.08 — when his Dodge Ram collided with a van on U.S. Highway 20 near Henry’s Lake on May 1. The crash occurred just as Idaho entered its “100 Deadliest Days,” a period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when traffic fatalities typically rise.
The deceased include:
- Ivana Wen, 28, of Milan, Italy
- Jianping Li, 71, of Guangxi, China
- Xiaoming Jiang, 66, of Guilin, Guangxi Province, China
- Li Nie, 64, of Arcadia, California
- Aifeng Wan, 53, of Arcadia, California
- Yu Zhang, 30, of Eastvale, California, the van’s driver
- Isaiah Moreno, 25, of Humble, Texas
Eight other occupants of the van survived, some with serious injuries.
ISP Captain Chris Weadick called the incident a “preventable tragedy” and urged drivers to make safe, sober choices behind the wheel.
“This tragedy should be a wake-up call,” Weadick said. “No one plans to cause a crash or take a life when they get behind the wheel, but choices have consequences.”
The Idaho Transportation Department’s Bryan Young echoed the concern, noting that summer travel brings more vehicles to the road and a higher risk of deadly crashes.
“Idaho’s roads are especially busy during the summer,” Young said. “It only takes one impaired driver to change lives forever.”
ISP and ITD officials are expanding DUI enforcement and outreach efforts throughout the summer. They encourage drivers to plan ahead, designate a sober driver, and report suspected impaired drivers by calling *ISP (*477) or 911.
The investigation into the crash remains open as officials continue reconstruction analysis and await final test results. Authorities also expressed gratitude to the Fremont County deputies, passersby, and first responders who rushed to the scene.
“This investigation required immense time and precision to gather the right information and respectfully serve the families,” Weadick said.
Fremont County Coroner Brenda Dye also praised the collaborative effort in identifying the victims.
“This tragic incident required thorough coordination and careful attention to detail,” Dye said. “We’re grateful for the professionalism and support from our partners to ensure accurate documentation and dignity for the families of those lost.”
Officials stress that preventing impaired driving begins with individual choices and can ultimately save lives.
