A 24-year-old man was killed early Friday morning after his vehicle struck a moose on the George Parks Highway, just south of the Denali Park Road entrance.
The crash occurred around 1 a.m. near mile 235 of the highway, according to the National Park Service. The man, a Bulgarian citizen, was pronounced dead at the scene. A 24-year-old woman from North Macedonia, who was traveling with him, was injured and transported to Fairbanks Memorial Hospital.
Officials are withholding the driver’s name until his family has been notified. The National Park Service said it is coordinating with the Bulgarian Embassy to complete next-of-kin notifications.
The crash highlights the dangers of driving in Alaska, where large animals like moose and caribou are often active during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours, making them difficult for motorists to spot.
Authorities urged drivers to take precautions, including reducing speed in low-light conditions, staying alert for wildlife near the road, using high-beam headlights when possible, and always wearing seatbelts.
The George Parks Highway remains open while the National Park Service investigates the incident. Agencies assisting at the scene included Tri-Valley Fire Department, McKinley Fire Department, Anderson Fire Department, and the Alaska State Troopers.
