CODY, Wyo. — A fatal crash involving a Ford truck and a group of motorcyclists occurred on U.S. Highway 14/16/20 near Wapiti at approximately 8:36 a.m. on Wednesday.
The collision involved six vehicles and ten individuals. Terry Zaske, 48, of South Dakota, was pronounced dead, while five others sustained injuries. Four individuals reported no injuries.
According to the Wyoming Highway Patrol (WHP), the Ford truck was traveling east when it failed to navigate a curve and drifted into oncoming traffic, striking two motorcycles heading west. The impact launched the motorcyclists off the road. Following this, additional bikers collided with the downed motorcycles.
The truck lost its front driver’s-side wheel, veered off the road, and struck a WYDOT truck that had swerved to avoid the initial collision. The Ford continued through a right-of-way fence before coming to a stop in a nearby field.
Zaske was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. WHP officials have cited driver inattention and speed as primary factors, noting that weather conditions did not contribute to the incident.
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing, and lane closures were in place during emergency response efforts.
This is a developing story. Authorities will provide updates as more information becomes available.