Weekend crash results in death of local girl, arrest of local man

An investigation of the incident is still underway, but on Monday Caribou County Coroner Casey Batterton released the name of the 17 year old victim in Sunday morning’s fatal crash on Government Dam Road.  Emma Vario, of Soda Springs, passed away from injuries received during the single-car rollover accident, which occurred at roughly 1:30 a.m. on Sunday.

Idaho State Police, with the assistance of the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office, the Soda Springs Police Department, Caribou County Ambulance, and Classic Air, responded to the scene early in the morning.  The two other passengers of the vehicle, which apparently failed to negotiate a turn while southbound on the Government Dam Road, were taken to nearby hospitals by responding EMS.  They were stated to be 19 and 20, though their names were not released.

Government Dam Road was closed for a number of hours as the scene was investigated.  Only the driver was wearing a seatbelt, according to investigators. 

The driver of the pickup truck was announced by arresting authorities as 19 year old Hayden Koller, also of Soda Springs.  Alcohol was determined to have been a “contributing factor” in the incident.  Koller has been charged with vehicular manslaughter and aggravated drunk driving as a result of the crash.  Koller is being held at the Caribou County Jail until the case comes before the court.

Coroner Batterton expressed his condolences to Vario’s family.  During Monday’s County Commission meeting, county officials also expressed their shock and sympathy, as did members of the community throughout the day.  The end of the school year often brings with it an increased number of parties, graduations, celebrations, sporting events, and other situations where young people have potentially increased access to alcohol and vehicles.  

As this story develops, we will keep you updated.