Idaho highway crash leaves three motorcyclists dead after no-passing attempt — Crime scene investigation - File Photo.

KOOSKIA, ID – A stretch of U.S. Highway 12 carved between river and mountain turned into a fatal crash site Tuesday afternoon when a pickup truck crossed into oncoming traffic, killing three motorcyclists and shutting down the roadway for hours. The driver, identified as 60-year-old Neale Brewer, now faces three counts of vehicular manslaughter and is being held without bond.

According to Idaho State Police, the crash occurred at about 4 p.m. as Brewer drove a 2019 Ford F-150 westbound near Kooskia. At the same time, three motorcyclists — later identified as Ethan Powers, 35, Jeremy Coleman, 45, and Nathan McCormick, 26 — were traveling eastbound on the two-lane highway.

Investigators said the collision happened during an attempted pass in a restricted zone.

Crash details and investigation

Police said a preliminary investigation indicates Brewer attempted to pass another vehicle “in a marked no-passing zone.” During that maneuver, she “crossed the double yellow centerline and collided” with the three motorcyclists.

All three riders died at the scene. The Idaho County Coroner’s Office has identified the victims and is responsible for determining the exact cause and manner of death.

Authorities said Brewer was transported to a local hospital for treatment following the crash. After being released, she was arrested and booked into the Idaho County Jail.

Road closure and ongoing probe

U.S. Highway 12 remained closed for more than six hours as crews worked to clear debris and investigators processed the scene. Officials said the crash remains under investigation.

The highway where the crash occurred is a two-lane route running alongside a waterway, bordered by mountainous terrain in northwestern Idaho, approximately 220 miles from Boise.

Idaho State Police have not released additional details as investigators continue to examine the circumstances leading up to the crash.

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