Montana, October 21, 2025
News Summary
A tragic plane crash in Montana resulted in the deaths of a Huntsville family of three, including experienced pilot Mark Anderson and his two daughters, Lainey and Ellie. The plane crashed in the Bob Marshall Wilderness after the pilot reported engine trouble. Initial search efforts located the wreckage, leading to the confirmation of their deaths. The community is expressing support and condolences, with plans for counseling and a prayer vigil in their memory.
Huntsville Family of Three Killed in Montana Plane Crash
A tragic plane crash in Montana has claimed the lives of a Huntsville family of three. Mark Anderson, an experienced pilot, was flying with his two daughters, Lainey (22) and Ellie (17), when their small plane crashed in the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
The accident occurred on Friday afternoon after Mark reported experiencing engine trouble shortly before contact was lost. Their family dog, Stella, was also on board the flight, but Mark’s wife, Misty Anderson, was not present in the aircraft.
Incident Details
The Powell County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a potential downed aircraft at approximately 4:30 p.m. MDT on Friday. Initial search efforts were launched from air resources at Malmstrom Air Force Base, continuing until midnight. The search resumed the following morning, leading to the discovery of the wreckage around 9 a.m. on Saturday. A volunteer aircraft from the Montana Department of Transportation Aeronautics division located the crash site through a weak signal from an emergency locator transmitter.
All three occupants were pronounced dead at the scene after the plane was found in a remote wooded area close to Youngs Creek. The investigation into the crash has now been transferred to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Community Impact and Support
Monte Sano Baptist Church in Huntsville has expressed condolences to the Anderson family, describing Mark as a dedicated and skilled pilot. Huntsville High School also confirmed the deaths of Ellie and Lainey Anderson, announcing plans to provide counseling to students affected by this tragedy.
In light of the incident, the school’s scheduled homecoming events, including both the dance and parade, have been postponed. A prayer vigil for the Anderson family is also planned.
About the Victims
Lainey Anderson was notably a certified flight instructor and had recently graduated from Auburn University’s Professional Flight program. This family’s loss has left a significant impact on their community and beyond.
A statement from the Anderson family has been released, conveying their gratitude for the outpouring of support they have received and emphasizing the profound loss they are facing.
FAQs
- What happened to the Anderson family in Montana?
- A tragic plane crash in Montana has claimed the lives of a Huntsville family of three. Mark Anderson, an experienced pilot, was flying with his two daughters, Lainey (22) and Ellie (17), when their small plane crashed in the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
- When did the crash occur?
- The accident occurred on Friday afternoon after Mark reported experiencing engine trouble shortly before contact was lost.
- Was anyone else on board besides the family?
- Yes, their family dog, Stella, was also on board the flight, but Mark’s wife, Misty Anderson, was not present in the aircraft.
- Who is investigating the crash?
- The investigation into the crash has now been transferred to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
- What support is being provided to the community?
- Huntsville High School announced plans to provide counseling to students affected by this tragedy, and Monte Sano Baptist Church expressed their condolences to the Anderson family.
Key Features of the Plane Crash Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victims | Mark Anderson, Lainey (22), Ellie (17), and family dog Stella |
| Crash Location | Bob Marshall Wilderness, Montana |
| Search Time | Initial search at 4:30 p.m. MDT; wreckage found at 9 a.m. Saturday |
| Aircraft Condition | Mark reported engine trouble before crash |
| Community Support | Counseling at Huntsville High School, prayer vigil planned |
| Investigating Authorities | Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Plane Crash in Montana Claims Lives of Huntsville Family
Tragic Aircraft Crash Claims Lives of Huntsville Family
Huntsville Family Tragically Killed in Montana Plane Crash
Tragic Plane Crash Claims Lives of Anderson Family
Tragic Plane Crash Claims Lives of Family in Montana
Tragic Plane Crash Claims Lives of Alabama Family in Montana Wilderness
Tragic Plane Crash Claims Anderson Family in Montana
Search and Recovery Efforts for Missing Aircraft in Montana
Plane Crash Claims Lives of Alabama Family on Vacation
Tragic Plane Crash Claims Lives of Alabama Family in Montana
Additional Resources
- WAAYTV: Family Releases Statement
- Rocket City Now: Aircraft Found
- WAFF: Community Plans Vigil
- AL.com: Search Underway
- WHNT: 3 Killed in Plane Crash
- Wikipedia: Plane Crash
- Google Search: Huntsville Plane Crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aviation
- Google News: Huntsville Plane Crash
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.
