Fatal I-90 Accident: Tragic Collision Claims Three Lives

UPDATE: 02/20/2025 at 11:03 AM

The Sheriff and Coroner, Jeremiah Petersen, is releasing the names of the individuals who died in a vehicle crash, near mile marker 90 on Interstate 90, on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.

They have been identified as 41-year-old Richard E. Graham II, of Missoula, Montana,  46-year-old Jeffery A. Clausen of Great Falls, Montana, and a five-year-old juvenile male from Missoula, Montana.

Our sincere thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends during this very difficult time.

First Report: 02/18/2025 at 11:33 AM

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - Three people are dead after an early morning crash on Interstate 90 near Frenchtown.

I spoke with Montana Highway Patrol Captain Shawn Silvan just after 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, who provided a brief description of what happened as a result of the tragic accident.

Three People are Dead Following a Multiple Vehicle Accident Near Missoula

“At approximately 3:00 a.m. an SUV was traveling east on I 90, near mile marker 90,” began Captain Silvan. “The SUV lost control and crashed. After the crash, two (other) vehicles stopped to render assistance, and while some occupants were rendering assistance, a tractor-trailer traveling by lost control and struck the vehicles that were parked on the side of the road, killing one juvenile occupant and causing severe injuries to another.”

Captain Silvan said another vehicle struck and killed two individuals who were attempting to render aid.

Two Others Who Stopped to Render Assistance Were Also Killed

“Additionally, two males rendering assistance were struck outside of the vehicle and killed,” he said. “Emergency personnel are still on scene and the investigation is still ongoing.”

Captain Silvan said one possible contributing factor to the multi-vehicle accident was the inclement weather and snow in the area.

Captain Silvan Said the Investigation into the Fatal Crash is Ongoing

Captain Silvan said the investigation into the fatal accident is underway by the Montana Highway Patrol.