Driver arrested after crash near Spalding

Idaho State Police is investigating an injury crash that happened about 9:30 p.m. Sunday on U.S. 95 at milepost 304.

According to the ISP, a 2020 GMC Sierra pickup truck, driven by a 29-year-old male from Deer Park, Wash., was northbound on U.S. 95 on the Spalding Bridge which crosses the Clearwater River. The GMC Sierra pickup truck crossed over the centerline and struck another vehicle head-on, causing it to overturn. The second vehicle involved was a 1999 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck, driven by a 20-year-old male from Lapwai.

Both occupants were transported to a hospital via ground ambulance. Both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash, and airbags were deployed. 

The preliminary investigation indicates that alcohol may have been a factor in the crash, ISP said. The 29-year-old male driver of the GMC Sierra pickup truck was subsequently arrested for aggravated DUI and booked at the Nez Perce County Jail without incident.

U.S. 95 at the Spalding Bridge was blocked for about three and a half hours while first responders worked on the scene. Assisting agencies included the Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office, Nez Perce Tribal Police Department, Lewiston EMS and Idaho Transportation Department. 

An investigation continues.