Parks Highway collision in Houston claims 2

Two people were killed after a motor vehicle collision on Parks Highway in Houston early Wednesday evening.

Alaska State Troopers responded to mile 59 of the Parks Highway near Zero Lake Road after reports of a head on collision involving a 2005 Honda Pilot, driven by Melissa Keown of Willow, and a 2001 Chevy Pick-up, driven by Michael Vial, also of Willow.

Both drivers were declared deceased on scene and were the only occupants of the vehicles. AST Reports that both drivers were wearing seatbelts.

In a related post to social media, the Houston Fire Department commended community members who witnessed the accident and took action.

“We would like to talk about what happened prior to our arrival. Our community stood up and took action, and we cannot thank you enough. Several off-duty responders from our mutual aid partners to the north, Willow Caswell Fire Department, stopped to triage the situation and advise us on what resources would be needed,” the post said.

The post also said that several bystanders with experience in maintaining and controlling traffic, stepped in to assist with the Parks Highway as the 2-lane highway was busy with evening commuters, helping to protect the scene and other drivers passing through, making sure there was room for emergency vehicles. Over a dozen cars stopped to render aid, and witnesses remained behind to provide information to responders.

“It is the actions of these people that protected everybody else on the highway. We thank you. Tragedy occurred, but so did community and compassion. Our hearts were both broken and comforted yesterday evening.”

The investigation is ongoing at this time.