The Missoula community is reeling from a tragic and devastating crash that claimed the lives of three individuals early Tuesday morning, February 19, 2025, on Interstate 90 near Frenchtown, Montana. The victims, identified as 41-year-old Richard E. Graham II of Missoula, 46-year-old Jeffery A. Clausen of Great Falls, and a five-year-old boy from Missoula, have left a profound void in the hearts of their families, friends, and the entire community. The horrific incident has prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for heightened safety awareness on the roads.
The crash occurred around 3 a.m. when the driver of an SUV, traveling eastbound on I-90 near mile marker 90, lost control of the vehicle. According to the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP), the SUV veered off the highway and crashed, sending shockwaves through the area. As the vehicle came to a stop, two other vehicles quickly pulled over to provide assistance, with their occupants stepping out to offer help to those involved in the initial accident.
However, tragedy struck again when a tractor-trailer, which had also lost control on the icy roads, slammed into the two parked vehicles and their occupants. The crash killed two men who had been standing outside their vehicles, trying to assist those in need. Among the victims was the five-year-old boy, who was inside one of the cars at the time of the collision. The young child, tragically, did not survive the crash, and another individual sustained severe injuries. This horrifying chain of events has left many in the community struggling to come to terms with the magnitude of the loss.
Richard E. Graham II and Jeffery A. Clausen were both well-known and respected members of their communities. Graham, who was from Missoula, had deep ties to the area, and his loss has been felt by friends, family, and coworkers alike. Clausen, a resident of Great Falls, was equally cherished and known for his kindness and willingness to help others. Both men had a reputation for selflessness and generosity, and they were remembered by those who knew them for their positive impacts on the lives of those around them.
The young boy, whose identity has not yet been publicly released, was a member of the Missoula community and the son of one of the adults involved in the tragic accident. The death of a child is a particularly devastating blow to the family and friends involved, and the entire community mourns with the grieving parents and relatives who must now face the unimaginable heartache of losing a young child under such tragic circumstances.
Missoula County Sheriff and Coroner Jeremiah Petersen confirmed the deaths of the three individuals, stating that the entire incident is under investigation. The Montana Highway Patrol, along with local authorities, are working tirelessly to understand the details of what led to this catastrophic crash. According to MHP Captain Shawn Silvan, the icy conditions and the early morning hour played a significant role in the events that led to the deadly crash. Officers are continuing to assess the road conditions and the actions that led to the collision between the tractor-trailer and the parked vehicles.
The details surrounding the crash have left many in the Missoula and Great Falls areas grappling with questions about road safety and the causes of such a horrific chain of events. The collision between the two vehicles stopped to offer help and the tractor-trailer, which lost control, raises concerns about driving safety, particularly in areas where road conditions can change rapidly. Authorities have warned drivers in Montana to remain vigilant when traveling on icy roads and to take extra precautions, especially during the winter months when hazardous conditions are more common.
This incident also underscores the dangers that first responders, as well as good Samaritans, face when they attempt to assist others on the road. The actions of Graham, Clausen, and others who attempted to help those in need are a testament to their character and compassion, but the tragic loss of life is a sobering reminder of the risks that come with stopping to help others on busy highways.
The news of the crash has spread quickly throughout the community, with friends, family, and neighbors expressing their condolences and support for the families of the victims. Social media platforms and local news outlets have been flooded with tributes, as people share their memories of Graham, Clausen, and the young boy, offering words of comfort and support to those affected by the tragedy. Memorials, vigils, and other forms of support are being planned by local organizations and community members, as people come together to grieve and remember the lives lost.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the families of the victims are left to cope with the overwhelming grief that comes with the sudden loss of loved ones. They are also faced with the heartbreaking reality of the accident’s emotional and financial impact. In the coming weeks, as the legal process continues, it is likely that more details will emerge about the exact cause of the crash and any potential safety measures that could have prevented this tragedy.
In addition to the ongoing investigation, local authorities and public safety agencies are reviewing current traffic safety protocols and considering how to improve safety on the roadways, particularly in areas known for hazardous weather conditions. In the wake of this tragic accident, there may be a renewed focus on driver education, better road conditions, and the need for more public awareness surrounding the dangers of icy roads and poor visibility.
This incident has deeply affected not only the families of the victims but also the wider Missoula and Great Falls communities, which have come together in the wake of the tragedy. Local leaders, including city officials and members of law enforcement, have expressed their condolences and vowed to support the families as they mourn the loss of their loved ones. The bonds of community support are helping to provide comfort during this difficult time, and the collective strength of the people of Missoula and Great Falls will help them heal from this senseless loss.
In addition to offering condolences and tributes, some community members have also raised funds through online platforms like GoFundMe to help the victims’ families with funeral expenses and other financial burdens related to the aftermath of the crash. These gestures of kindness and generosity reflect the outpouring of love and support from the community, as people work together to support the families of the victims.
As the days and weeks go by, the memory of the three lives lost in this tragic crash will remain in the hearts of the people of Missoula and Great Falls. Richard E. Graham II, Jeffery A. Clausen, and the young boy who tragically lost his life will be remembered not only for the way they lived their lives but also for the way they showed love, kindness, and compassion to others. While they are gone, their spirits will continue to live on in the memories of those who knew them, and their loss will serve as a reminder to cherish the time we have with our loved ones.
May they rest in peace, and may their families find comfort and healing in the love and support of the community.
