A family of four from Caldwell, Idaho, that was reported missing on Friday died in a crash on eastbound Interstate 94, about six miles east of I-90.
According to the Montana Highway Patrol, their 2017 Toyota 4Rrunner went into the median, traveled between the eastbound and westbound bridge decks, hit a concrete support pillar, and landed in a creek. Troopers say the crash happened on Thursday at 7 a.m. and the call came in at 8 pm on Friday.
James Dean and his wife Chelsi Kay Dean, both 25 years old, and their daughters Kaytlin Merie (5) and Avri James (1) died in the crash.
According to TV station KIVI in Idaho, Anthony and his wife both grew up in Caldwell. He was serving in the Air Force and was stationed at Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota. His wife served as a member of a volunteer fire department in the community.
Officials at Grand Forks AFB shared the following message on Facebook: “Hearts are heavy today after the loss of a beloved family. Please check on your wingman and support each other during this difficult time.”
A press release says that Dean was assigned to the 69th Maintenance Squadron at the base.
The commander of the squadron, Major Eric Inkenbrandt, said, “Words are not enough during a time like this. AJ’s family brought a light to our maintenance community, and this loss strikes us deeply. May their friends and family be granted the strength and serenity to get through this sorrowful time.
Hearts are heavy today after the loss of a beloved family. Please check on your wingman and support each other during this difficult time.
Posted by Grand Forks Air Force Base on Saturday, November 24, 2018
