RIVERTON, Wyo. (AP) — Authorities say Eastern Shoshone Tribal Liaison Ed Wadda, who died in a rollover crash on Interstate 25, lost control of his vehicle when he swerved to avoid a deer.

The Wyoming Highway Patrol says the 42-year-old was driving south between Casper and Buffalo at about 8:45 p.m. Thursday when a deer ran in front of his SUV. According to the Associated Press, Wadda died at the scene, and three passengers were injured.

Two were ejected, and the one who was wearing a seat belt suffered minor injuries.

Gov. Matt Mead issued a statement calling Wadda a caring person who continued to strengthen the relationship between the state and the Eastern Shoshone Tribe.

Meanwhile, Ivan Posey, a member of the Eastern Shoshone Business Council, said Wadda had been instrumental in promoting youth programs on the Wind River Indian Reservation.

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