Twin Falls, ID (August 7, 2025) – A cow moose was struck by a vehicle and later euthanized by Idaho Fish and Game officials Wednesday morning after suffering severe injuries in a crash on Washington St near Park Ave, just south of Twin Falls. The incident prompted a coordinated response between wildlife officers and a local crane operator to manage the scene and recover the animal.
The collision occurred during early morning hours, a time when wildlife officials warn motorists to be especially cautious due to increased animal activity. According to Idaho Fish and Game, the moose sustained critical injuries and could not be saved. Out of concern for the animal’s suffering, wildlife personnel made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize it.
After the euthanasia, a local crane truck operator assisted with removing the moose from the roadside and facilitated proper salvage of the carcass, in accordance with state wildlife procedures.
Idaho Fish and Game emphasized the continued need for driver awareness, especially during dawn, dusk, and nighttime periods when big game animals are most active. This crash serves as a stark reminder of the risks both to animals and drivers when vehicles and wildlife collide on Idaho’s roadways.
We extend our appreciation to those who responded swiftly and compassionately to this incident and remind all motorists to remain vigilant on rural and suburban roads.
Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions in Idaho
Idaho’s vast open landscapes and thriving wildlife populations are part of what makes the state unique—but they also present challenges for driver safety. Collisions with animals, particularly large game like moose and deer, are a seasonal hazard, especially during migration periods and the early morning or late evening hours when visibility is low and animal movement increases.
The crash on Washington St highlights a common pattern seen across Idaho: moose, elk, and deer moving through populated corridors near towns like Twin Falls. These encounters can be extremely dangerous due to the size of the animals. Moose, in particular, are tall enough that a collision often sends the animal through the windshield of a vehicle, posing serious risk to human life.
State law in Idaho allows for roadkill salvage, provided the carcass is reported within 24 hours and a permit is obtained within 72 hours. While this provides a way to responsibly handle unfortunate events, it also underscores the importance of proactive safety.
To reduce the likelihood of these incidents, Idaho Fish and Game recommends drivers use high beams when safe to do so, slow down in known wildlife corridors, and remain alert near wooded or brush-lined roads where animals may appear suddenly.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a wildlife collision, it’s essential to report it and seek the right support for medical, legal, or logistical concerns.
Wildlife-related crashes are part of life in Idaho—but education, awareness, and timely response can reduce their impact. For updates on traffic incidents and help navigating the aftermath of a crash, visit LocalAccidentReports.com today. We’re here to help you stay informed and safe on Idaho’s roads.