Huntsville, Alabama, October 19, 2025
News Summary
A tragic plane crash in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, Montana, claimed the lives of three Huntsville residents, including an experienced pilot and his two daughters. The search operation faced challenges due to inclement weather and the remote location. Investigators are now looking into the cause of the crash as the local community mourns the loss of the Anderson family.
Huntsville, Alabama – Plane Crash Claims Lives
Three individuals from Huntsville, Alabama, tragically lost their lives in a plane crash that occurred in the Bob Marshall Wilderness in Montana on Friday. The victims have been identified as experienced pilot Mark Anderson and his two daughters, Lainey and Ellie. According to Powell County Sheriff Gavin Roselles, the crash took place in a very remote area where there is no cell signal.
On Friday afternoon, the aircraft dropped off radar, prompting authorities to launch a search operation. The Powell County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a possible downed aircraft at approximately 4:30 p.m. Air resources were deployed from Malstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls and searched until around midnight. After a challenging search due to inclement weather, the wreckage was discovered by an Air Force helicopter at approximately 9 a.m. on Saturday.
Once first responders reached the crash site later that day, Sheriff Roselles announced on Saturday night that there were no survivors. Community members from Monte Sano Baptist Church, where the Anderson family was known, initially expressed hope for the safe return of the individuals and requested prayers. However, they later shared their grief for the family left behind, which includes Misty, the wife and mother of the victims.
Investigators from the Powell County Sheriff’s Office have transferred the investigation to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which will work to determine the cause of the crash. Members of the Powell County Coroner’s Office, along with Missoula County Search and Rescue and the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, arrived at the scene around 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Background of the Incident
The plane crash highlights the dangers faced in aviation, particularly in remote areas where access and communication are difficult. The Bob Marshall Wilderness is known for its rugged terrain and lack of cell reception, complicating rescue operations in emergencies.
The Anderson family was known in their community, and news of their tragic loss has left many in shock and mourning. Members of the congregation have rallied in support of Misty Anderson, mourning the sudden loss of her husband and daughters.
The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation, as authorities look to gather more information to understand how the incident occurred. The FAA and NTSB will analyze data and complete necessary examinations to provide insights into the events leading up to the crash.
Community Response
The reaction in Huntsville has been one of profound sorrow. The local community, particularly members of Monte Sano Baptist Church, have come together to mourn the loss and provide support to the family during this difficult time. Prayers and messages of condolences have been shared as residents remember the lives of Mark, Lainey, and Ellie Anderson.
Summary
This tragic plane crash in Montana claims the lives of three residents from Huntsville, Alabama, drawing the community together in grief and support for the family left behind. The investigation led by aviation authorities is underway, with the hope of uncovering the events that resulted in this devastating loss.
FAQ Section
What happened in the plane crash in Montana?
Three people from Huntsville, Alabama, were killed in a plane crash in Montana on Friday. The victims were experienced pilot Mark Anderson and his two daughters, Lainey and Ellie.
Where did the plane crash occur?
The crash occurred in a very remote area of Bob Marshall Wilderness, Montana, where there is no cell signal.
When was the crash site discovered?
The crash site was discovered on Saturday morning at approximately 9 a.m. by an Air Force helicopter.
Which authorities are investigating the crash?
The investigation has been transferred to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | Friday, Date of the Crash |
| Location | Bob Marshall Wilderness, Montana |
| Victims | Mark Anderson, Lainey Anderson, Ellie Anderson |
| Response | Search and rescue initiated after radar lost at 4:30 p.m.; wreckage found by 9 a.m. Saturday |
| Investigating Bodies | FAA, NTSB |
| Community Reaction | Deep sorrow and prayers for the family, support from local church |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WAFF: Crews searching for Huntsville pilot family after reported plane crash in Montana
- Wikipedia: Plane crash
- WHNT: 3 killed in Montana plane crash believed to be Huntsville man and two daughters
- Google Search: Montana plane crash
- AL.com: Search underway for Alabama family after plane goes down in Montana
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aircraft accident
- ABC3340: Montana plane crash claims lives of three from Huntsville
- Google News: Huntsville plane crash
- KRTV: 3 people dead after small plane crashes in Montana
- KBTX: NTSB determines cause of fatal 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.
