Two Montana Tow Operators Struck and Killed During Vehicle Recovery on I-90

Two tow truck operators were struck and killed Sunday, Oct. 25, while recovering a disabled vehicle from a ditch on Interstate 90 near Columbus, Mont.

According to the Montana Highway Patrol, the operators, a 28-year-old male from Reed Point and a 37-year-old male from Billings, had two tow trucks positioned in the eastbound passing lane when the approaching driver of a 2016 Dodge Ram 3500 pulling a travel trailer moved into the passing lane to avoid hitting the rear of a semi that was slowing for the tow trucks. The pickup then struck the operators, who both died at the scene.

The highway patrol said speed was a factor in the crash, and road conditions were icy. Whether any charges will be filed or citations will be issued is not known at this time.

UPDATE: The tow operators killed have been identified as William Casie Allen, 28, of Reed Point and Nicholas Ryan Visser, 37, of Billings. Both worked for Hanser’s Automotive in Billings. GoFundMe pages have been set up for Visser and Allen to assist with funeral costs and expenses.