Huntsville Family Tragically Killed in Montana Plane Crash

Montana, October 21, 2025

News Summary

A plane crash in Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness claimed the lives of Huntsville father Mark Anderson and his two daughters, Lainey and Ellie. Search efforts began after a report of a downed aircraft, revealing the wreckage in a remote area. Investigations are ongoing, and the community is mourning their loss, with a prayer vigil scheduled to support the grieving family.

Huntsville Family Tragically Killed in Montana Plane Crash

A tragic plane crash occurred in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, Montana, claiming the lives of a Huntsville father and his two daughters. The victims were identified as Mark Anderson (62), the pilot, and his daughters Lainey (22) and Ellie Anderson (17). The Powell County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a possible downed aircraft around 4:30 p.m. on Friday, prompting immediate search efforts.

Air resources from Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls were deployed to conduct a search throughout the night. The wreckage was located the following morning at approximately 9 a.m., after a volunteer aircraft tracked a weak emergency locator transmitter (ELT) signal. The downed aircraft was found in a remote area of Youngs Creek, northeast of Seeley Lake. Sadly, all three occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.

The investigation into the crash has been turned over to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Prior to the plane’s signal being lost, Mark Anderson reported experiencing engine trouble, according to a statement from the family’s representatives.

Lainey Anderson had recently earned her certification as a flight instructor (CFI/II) at Sanders Aviation, located in Jasper, Alabama. She was described as an “exceptional and skilled aviator” and a “beloved flight instructor” by her colleagues. Lainey was a graduate of Auburn University’s Professional Flight program and also a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority.

Misty Anderson, Mark’s wife and the girls’ mother, was not on the flight and is currently in mourning following the heartbreaking loss of her family. Their church, Monte Sano Baptist Church in Huntsville, held a prayer vigil and announced the tragic news via social media. The Huntsville High School community is also grieving, extending support to students impacted by the loss of Ellie Anderson, who was a senior at the school.

A prayer vigil for the family has been organized for Wednesday, October 22, at 6:30 p.m. at Milton Frank Stadium in Huntsville. Community members and local organizations have offered condolences and support for the Anderson family during this devastating time.

Key Details of the Incident

FAQ

What caused the plane crash in Montana?

Mark Anderson reported experiencing engine trouble shortly before the plane’s signal was lost.

Who were the victims of the crash?

The victims were identified as Mark Anderson (62), the pilot, and his daughters Lainey (22) and Ellie Anderson (17).

What are the details of the prayer 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
Victims Mark Anderson (62), Lainey Anderson (22), Ellie Anderson (17)
Crash Location Bob Marshall Wilderness, Montana
Emergency Response Search started around 4:30 p.m. on Friday
Wreckage Discovery Found around 9 a.m. Saturday
Investigation Agency FAA and NTSB
Community Vigil Scheduled for October 22 at 6:30 p.m. at Milton Frank Stadium

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Additional Resources

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