Fatal crash closes the Parks Highway in both directions near mile marker 133

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) - The Parks Highway is closed in both directions north of Trapper Creek between mile 127 and mile 133.5 due to a collision between a fuel tanker and an empty methane tanker. The closure is expected to last until around 6 p.m.

Alaska State Troopers (AST) were notified of a collision involving two commercial vehicles at mile 133.5 around 1:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, according to a dispatch report.

Troopers and first responders responded immediately to the accident.

Based on preliminary investigation, AST determined an empty methane tanker was traveling southbound when the driver lost control on a corner and collided with a fuel tanker that was traveling northbound on the Parks Highway.

The driver of the fuel tanker, 67-year-old David Hope, from Talkeetna, was declared deceased at the scene. His next of kin have been notified.

The driver of the methane tanker was uninjured in the collision.

The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation has also been notified as a significant amount of fuel was spilled.

The Parks Highway will remain closed for scene investigation and fuel remediation efforts.

Updated information on the highway closure and when it will reopen can be found at

https://511.alaska.gov/

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