Former Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Judge William “Bill” F. Bacon Dies in Pocatello Crash
POCATELLO, Idaho (March 27, 2026) — The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes have confirmed the passing of William “Bill” F. Bacon, 69, a former tribal judge and longtime legal advocate, following a fatal crash on Interstate 15 in Pocatello Thursday morning.
According to Idaho State Police, Bacon was driving a 2002 Nissan Altima northbound near mile marker 69 around 7 a.m. when his vehicle left the roadway and collided with a southbound semi-truck. Bacon, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was pronounced dead at the scene. The truck driver, a 39-year-old Utah man, was unharmed.
Bacon dedicated 37 years to protecting the sovereignty and rights of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, serving 12 years as a tribal judge and 24 years as general counsel. He played a pivotal role in landmark cases, including restoring the tribes’ treaty rights through the U.S. Supreme Court by overturning the 1896 Ward v. Racehorse decision, and addressing environmental hazards in the FMC Corporation case.
“Bill Bacon’s legacy is written in restored treaty rights, protected sovereignty, and resources secured for our people,” said Fort Hall Business Council Chairwoman Donna Thompson. “He has been a steadfast guardian of our future and a dear friend of the Tribes.”
Bacon, a member of the U.S. Supreme Court Bar Association, was also honored with the 2023 Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished Attorney award for his legal skill and ethical standards. He actively participated in tribal cultural practices, including sweat lodge and Sundance ceremonies, strengthening his bond with the Shoshone-Bannock community.
He is survived by his wife and three daughters. The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes expressed profound gratitude for Bacon’s lifelong dedication, noting that his legacy will continue to guide and benefit the tribes for generations.