Tragic Vehicle Crash Claims Lives of International Tourists in Popular Yellowstone Destination

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — The tragic deaths of six tourists from Italy and China in a van crash near Yellowstone National Park underline the dangers of roads leading to this popular destination. The accident, which occurred on a highway just west of the park, involved a collision with a pickup truck, resulting in both vehicles catching fire. Survivors were hospitalized with injuries, while the Chinese Consulate General reported that eight Chinese citizens were among those hurt.

This incident echoes a 2019 bus accident involving Chinese tourists in Utah that resulted in four deaths. These accidents highlight the hazards travelers face while enjoying the beauty of national parks.

As one of the world’s first national parks, Yellowstone attracts visitors from around the globe. According to the International Trade Administration, 36% of international travelers in the U.S. cite national parks as their main attraction. In 2016, 17% of Yellowstone’s visitors came from abroad, primarily from China, Italy, and Canada.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected international tourism. Brian Riley, who promotes the Yellowstone region in China, notes that many Chinese learn about Yellowstone in school, making it a dream destination. Yet, travel restrictions and safety concerns have limited their visits. Riley emphasizes that this shift has seen more domestic visitors, as international travelers remain wary.

Despite bleak forecasts post-pandemic, Yellowstone still saw around 4.7 million visitors last year, making it the park’s second-busiest year on record. However, the area has faced challenges, including a flood in 2022 that left parts of the park inaccessible.

Accidents in and around national parks are not new. The first recorded vehicle death in Yellowstone occurred in 1921, just after vehicles replaced horse-drawn transport. Park historian Lee Whittlesey details numerous accidents in his book “Deaths in Yellowstone,” including drowning and bear attacks. Auto fatalities, he notes, are alarmingly common, with at least 17 people dying in motor vehicle crashes in the park since 2007, making this the second most common cause of death there, after medical incidents.

The winding roads and breathtaking views can distract drivers. As Mother Shipton, a 15th-century soothsayer, warned, “Carriages without horses shall go, And Accidents fill the world with woe.” With the rise of tourist traffic, ensuring safety on these roads is crucial for preserving the park’s beauty and the lives of its visitors.

For more information about safety measures in national parks, you can visit the [National Park Service](https://www.nps.gov).

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