Cristian Mendivil Obituary, Death – A 30-year-old man who died after a serious crash on State Highway 55 has been identified by the Ada County Coroner’s Office as Cristian Mendivil of McCall. He passed away from traumatic blunt force injuries sustained during the accident, which occurred on the morning of June 16.
According to the coroner, Mendivil was pronounced dead in the intensive care unit after medical staff were unable to save him, despite extensive life-saving efforts. The collision involved three vehicles and happened near mile marker 119 in Valley County.
Idaho State Police reported that Mendivil was driving a red Ram 1500 pickup truck southbound on the highway when he crossed the center line. His vehicle struck two northbound pickup trucks—a silver Ram 2500 and a white Ram 2500—around 6:55 a.m.
Authorities said Mendivil was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. He sustained critical injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for emergency care, where he later died.
The drivers of the other two vehicles were wearing seatbelts and did not require hospitalization, police said. No additional injuries were reported at the scene.
The Idaho State Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to the collision. It is not yet known what caused Mendivil to cross into oncoming traffic—whether it was due to distraction, fatigue, a medical emergency, or some other factor.
This stretch of Highway 55 has seen multiple accidents in recent years, prompting ongoing concerns about traffic safety along the route. Officials frequently remind drivers to stay alert, wear seatbelts, and use caution on roads that are prone to head-on collisions.
The news of Mendivil’s death has impacted the McCall community, where he was a resident. Friends and family are mourning his loss as investigators continue their work to determine what led to the tragic accident.
The Idaho State Police have not issued any citations or provided updates on whether weather or road conditions may have contributed to the crash. They are expected to analyze vehicle data, road conditions, and witness statements as part of the ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, safety officials urge all drivers to avoid distractions, wear seatbelts, and maintain awareness of other vehicles, especially on two-lane highways where the risk of head-on crashes is higher.
The tragic incident underscores the importance of traffic safety and the devastating consequences that can result from even a momentary lapse on the road. As the investigation continues, loved ones are left grieving the sudden loss of a young man whose life was cut short on a rural stretch of highway.
No further details have been released at this time, and authorities ask anyone with information about the crash to contact Idaho State Police.
