Multiple vehicle accident on Parks claims 2 lives

Just after 5 p.m. on October 2, Alaska State Troopers (AST) 911 Dispatch received a report of a motor vehicle collision at Milepost 62 of the Parks Highway.

According to an online dispatch from the AST/Department of Public Safety (DPS), a preliminary investigation revealed that the driver of a Subaru station wagon, later identified as 52-year-old Wasilla resident Saranne Twitchell, crossed into oncoming traffic and struck three vehicles.

The accident and ensuing investigation caused the highway to be closed for over four hours as AST and first responders were called in to respond to the scene, and an investigation revealed that four vehicles were involved in the collision. Tragically, Twitchell and another driver, a 16-year-old male sole occupant of the second vehicle struck, lost their lives in the incident. Next of kin have been notified for both drivers.

“This is one that appears tragic accident,” said HFD Chief Christian Hartley, who was among the first on-scene.

He also reported that from the time of the initial 911 call to first apparatus arriving was less than 8 minutes. He also said that rescue crews had a complex entrapment involving a vehicle that as upside down, but that crews were able to extricate the patient under 2 minutes.

Online reports indicate the LifeMed was called to the scene, though no other persons were transported by ambulance for medical care. The deceased have been sent to the State Medical Examiner's Office for autopsy.

Multiple agencies responded to the incident including Houston Fire Department, Willow Caswell Fire Department, Mat-Su Borough EMS, Alaska State Troopers, West Lakes Fire Department, and LifeMed Alaska. “Your professionalism and rapid response made all the difference,” said Hartley. “Our community demonstrated the very best of what we can accomplish when we work together during a critical emergency response at Mile 62 Parks Highway. This serious accident required an extensive multi-agency effort, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed.”

Hartley said that a member of the armed forces provided assistance during the extrication. He also commended the civilian by-standers who stopped to provide assistance, from first aid to simply being another human while waiting, noting that he saw nearly twenty bystanders ranging in age from teens to retirees, already out of their vehicles, first-aid kits in hand ready to assist.

“We are especially moved by the extraordinary civilian response. When help was needed most, at least a dozen vehicles stopped to let first-aid-trained individuals provide first aid and medical help. Everyone on our Alaska roads knows how lonely it can feel. You made sure these people were not alone while waiting for rescue.”

He also commended the drivers waiting in vehicles as both sides of the highway were shut down, as the accident involved multiple vehicles and had multiple casualties, knowing that the delay would be significant. “To the countless travelers who experienced significant delays in both directions: your patience and cooperation were remarkable. Not a single person attempted to bypass our crews or drive through the scene, allowing our responders to work safely and effectively. Your consideration during this difficult time did not go unnoticed.

The HFD also wanted to convey a message of condolences to the families and friends affected by the tragedy, and to those who witnessed this accident or its aftermath, whether as a responder, Good Samaritan, or bystander, acknowledging that such an event can have a lasting impact.

“This tragic incident has touched many lives, and we know it will have lasting effects on those involved,” Hartley said, “To everyone who, please know that whatever emotions you're experiencing are completely valid. Traumatic events can affect each of us differently, and there's no "right" way to feel.”

As a reminder, if you find yourself struggling with what you've seen or experienced, please reach out for support. Whether it's talking to family, friends, a counselor, or calling a crisis helpline by calling 988. “Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.”