The Pocatello man killed Monday night when his car collided with an elk on Interstate 15 near the Idaho-Utah border has been identified as Dr. Mark E. Baker, a longtime oral surgeon in East Idaho, authorities said.

Baker, 66, practiced for decades with Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho in Pocatello. In a Facebook post, the practice remembered him as a trusted surgeon who brought compassion, kindness and dedication to every patient he treated.

He was a respected colleague, mentor and friend to his team, the clinic stated, and a physician who believed deeply in serving his community.

“Dr. Baker leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond the walls of our practice,” the clinic wrote. “The lives he touched, the patients he cared for, and the relationships he built will continue to be a lasting part of his story.”

The practice said it was grateful for the years shared with Baker and for the countless ways he made a difference in the lives of others.

“He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever a part of the Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho family,” the clinic wrote.

The practice said Dr. Shawn A. Jepsen will continue care for Baker’s current patients.

Baker was driving a 2022 BMW Z4 northbound on Interstate 15 around 9:27 p.m. Monday when the vehicle struck an elk in the roadway south of Malad, according to Idaho State Police. He died at the scene. It’s unknown whether he was wearing a seat belt, authorities said.

The crash partially blocked the freeway for over three hours.

Idaho State Police were assisted by the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, Oneida County Emergency Medical Services and the Idaho Transportation Department.