IDAHO FALLS — Bonneville County Sheriff Search and Rescue crews were called to 17 Mile Cave Friday evening after a concerned citizen reported a vehicle had been left unattended at the entrance of the lava tube for an unusually long period of time.
The cave, located approximately 16 miles west of Idaho Falls near U.S. Highway 20, drew a sheriff’s response around 7 p.m. after the reporting party expressed concern that someone inside might need help. Lt. Chris Smith of the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office confirmed deputies conducted a thorough search of the cave following the report.
The individual connected to the parked vehicle was ultimately located at a separate location. No injuries were reported, and emergency crews cleared the scene without further incident.
17 Mile Cave is a well-known lava tube in the area and is occasionally visited by recreationists exploring the volcanic terrain west of Idaho Falls. Cave environments can present navigation and safety challenges, making situations like Friday’s report a common reason for search and rescue callouts in Bonneville County.
The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office has remained active on multiple fronts in recent days. The agency is also seeking public assistance in locating a missing teenager, and crews have responded to other emergencies across the region. Residents in the area were also advised earlier this week to exercise caution during a wind advisory issued by the National Weather Service in Pocatello.
What Comes Next
No further investigation was expected following Friday’s cave response, as the subject of concern was located safely. The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office has not indicated any additional action is planned in connection with the incident.