Montana, October 23, 2025
News Summary
A plane crash in Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness has resulted in the deaths of Mark Anderson and his two daughters, Lainey and Ellie. They were heading to a vacation when their aircraft encountered technical issues. The search for wreckage began after an emergency signal was detected. The community mourns their loss, with counseling services offered at Huntsville High School and a prayer vigil planned in their honor.
Huntsville
A tragic plane crash in the Bob Marshall Wilderness of Montana on Friday, October 17, 2025, has claimed the lives of an Alabama father, Mark Anderson, and his two daughters, Lainey and Ellie Anderson. The family was en route to a vacation in Polson, Montana, when the twin-engine Piper Aztec piloted by Mark, 62, experienced engine trouble shortly before the aircraft’s emergency locator signal was lost.
The wreckage of the plane was located at approximately 9 a.m. on Saturday, October 18, after an emergency locator signal was detected, prompting search efforts that began late Friday afternoon. All three occupants were pronounced dead at the scene by the Powell County Coroner’s Office. Recovery teams faced difficult conditions, including steep terrain and downed timber, as they made their way to the crash site.
Mark Anderson, a skilled pilot, was flying with his two daughters—Lainey, 22, a certified flight instructor at Sanders Flight Training Center and a graduate of Auburn University’s professional flight program, and Ellie, 17, a senior at Huntsville High School and a member of the school’s dance team. The Anderson family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received following this devastating accident.
The investigation into the crash will be conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Huntsville High School officials have expressed their condolences and announced counseling services for students affected by Ellie’s death, highlighting the loss felt within the school community.
Friends and family are remembering Mark Anderson as a devoted father and an experienced pilot. Lainey is described as dedicated and skilled, beloved by her students and colleagues at the flight training center. Ellie’s warm spirit and kindness have also been fondly recalled by those who knew her.
A prayer vigil for the Anderson family is scheduled for Wednesday, October 22, at 6:30 p.m. at Milton Frank Stadium in Huntsville, providing a moment for the community to come together in support of one another during this difficult time.
Details of the Incident
- Date of Incident: October 17, 2025
- Location: Bob Marshall Wilderness, Montana
- Aircraft: Twin-engine Piper Aztec
- Occupants: Mark Anderson (62), Lainey Anderson (22), Ellie Anderson (17)
- Cause: Engine trouble reported by Mark Anderson
- Findings: All occupants pronounced dead at the scene
- Investigation: Conducted by FAA and NTSB
Community Response
- Huntsville High School: Counseling services offered for impacted students
- Vigil: Scheduled for October 22, at 6:30 p.m. at Milton Frank Stadium
- Family’s Statement: Appreciation expressed for public support
Background Information
Mark Anderson was a well-respected member of the Huntsville community, known for his dedication as a father and his skills as a pilot. Lainey’s involvement in the Alpha Chi Omega sorority and Ellie’s participation on the dance team reflect the positive impact the sisters had on their peers and the community. The loss of their family has left a significant void felt by many.
FAQs
What happened in the plane crash in Montana?
An Alabama father, Mark Anderson, and his two daughters, Lainey and Ellie Anderson, were killed in a plane crash in the Bob Marshall Wilderness of Montana on Friday, October 17, 2025.
What was the cause of the crash?
The family was on their way to a vacation in Polson, Montana, when Mark reported engine trouble shortly before the plane’s emergency locator signal was lost.
Who were the victims of the crash?
Mark Anderson was 62 years old, Lainey Anderson was 22, and Ellie Anderson was 17.
When and where is the vigil for the Anderson family?
A prayer vigil for the family is scheduled for Wednesday, October 22, at 6:30 p.m. at Milton Frank Stadium in Huntsville.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | October 17, 2025 |
| Location | Bob Marshall Wilderness, Montana |
| Occupants | Mark Anderson (62), Lainey Anderson (22), Ellie Anderson (17) |
| Cause of Incident | Engine trouble reported before signal loss |
| Investigation | Conducted by FAA and NTSB |
| Community Support | Counseling services offered, vigil scheduled |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Community Gathers for Vigil Honoring Anderson Family
Will Pylant Announces Candidacy for Huntsville City Council
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Additional Resources
- AL.com
- Wikipedia: Plane crash
- Fox News
- Google Search: Montana plane crash October 2025
- WAAY TV
- Google Scholar: Plane crash investigations
- WAFF
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aircraft accidents
- ABC3340
- Google News: Plane crash Huntsville October 2025
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
