Midday Collision Prompts Highway Closures and Evacuations
Two military jets collided near Mountain Home Air Force Base on Saturday afternoon, triggering a brush fire and forcing limited evacuations in the area. The crash occurred at approximately 12:13 p.m. on May 17, 2026, according to Idaho State Police.
Emergency responders closed multiple highways in Elmore County to facilitate evacuations and allow access for firefighting crews. State Highway 67, known locally as Airbase Road, remained shut down for roughly three and a half hours as authorities coordinated the emergency response. That roadway has since reopened, and traffic entering Mountain Home Air Force Base through the main gate is no longer affected.
State Highway 167, or Grandview Highway, was also closed and remains shut down pending completion of the accident investigation. The closure extends between the Mountain Home Air Force Base Contractors Gate and Easy Street. Motorists will not have public access between State Highway 67 and Simco Road during the investigation period.
Evacuations and Traffic Impacts
The brush fire sparked by the collision required authorities to order limited evacuations in the immediate area. Idaho State Police coordinated the response alongside multiple local agencies, including the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office, Mountain Home Police Department, Owyhee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Idaho Transportation Department.
Authorities are directing travelers to avoid the area and plan alternate routes. Simco Road, which could serve as a detour option, remains under active construction with reduced speed limits and gravel surfaces that may slow travel times.
Investigation Continues
Details about the cause of the crash, the types of aircraft involved, and any potential injuries have not been released. Idaho State Police referred further questions to the 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office at Mountain Home Air Force Base, which is handling inquiries related to the incident.
The 366th Fighter Wing operates F-15E Strike Eagles and is a key component of Air Combat Command. Mountain Home Air Force Base, located in southwestern Idaho, serves as home to multiple fighter squadrons and hosts regular training operations.
What Comes Next
State Highway 167 will remain closed until investigators complete their work at the crash site. Motorists should continue checking Idaho Transportation Department alerts for updates on when the highway will reopen. The Air Force investigation into the collision is expected to examine flight data, maintenance records, and pilot communications to determine what led to the midday crash.
Anyone with information related to the incident or questions about base operations should contact the 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office directly.