Tragic Plane Crash Claims Lives of Family in Montana

Bob Marshall Wilderness, Montana, October 21, 2025

News Summary

A tragic plane crash in Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness has resulted in the deaths of Mark Anderson and his two daughters, Lainey and Ellie. The small aircraft went down during their vacation, prompting extensive search efforts. Emergency response teams confirmed all three occupants were found deceased at the crash site. Investigations by the FAA and NTSB are underway to determine the crash’s cause, leaving the community mourning the loss of the Anderson family.

Helena, Montana

A tragic plane crash in the Bob Marshall Wilderness of Montana has resulted in the deaths of a father and his two daughters. Mark Anderson, 62, and his daughters, Lainey, 22, and Ellie, 17, were aboard a small aircraft that went down around 4:30 p.m. on Friday, October 17.

Radar contact with the plane was lost over a remote area in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, which covers 1.5 million acres. Efforts to locate the plane began immediately, with air resources from Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls deployed to conduct searches until midnight that night. However, it was not until approximately 9 a.m. the following day that a volunteer aircraft under the Montana Department of Transportation Aeronautics division discovered the crash site.

Emergency response teams, including members from the Powell County Coroner’s Office, Missoula County Search and Rescue, and the Seeley Lake Rural Fire Department, reached the scene around 4 p.m. on Saturday. Tragically, all three occupants, including the pilot, were pronounced dead at the crash site.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are currently investigating the incident to determine the causes behind the crash.

Family Background

Mark Anderson and his daughters were en route to Polson, Montana, for a vacation when the accident occurred. Lainey Anderson had recently earned her certification as a flight instructor and was described as an exceptional pilot, having graduated from Auburn University’s Professional Flight program. She was also a member of the Alpha Chi Omega sorority.

Ellie Anderson was a senior at Huntsville High School and actively involved in her school’s dance team, where she was highly regarded by her peers.

The family had garnered attention and support from their community, with Monte Sano Baptist Church in Huntsville, Alabama, soliciting prayers for the missing family prior to the discovery of their bodies. Reports indicate that Misty Anderson, the mother and wife, was on a commercial flight to Montana to meet her family at the time of the incident.

Community Response

The shocking loss of the Anderson family has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes on social media from friends and community members. Many have expressed their condolences and remembered the family for their kindness and character.

Investigation Status

The investigation is ongoing, with the FAA and NTSB working to piece together the events leading up to the crash. As authorities continue their work, the community mourns the profound loss of a family held in high regard.

Key Details Recap

• Victims: Mark Anderson (62), Lainey Anderson (22), Ellie Anderson (17)
• Crash Location: Bob Marshall Wilderness, Montana
• Date & Time: Friday, October 17 at 4:30 p.m.
• Discovery of Aircraft: Approximately 9 a.m. Saturday
• Emergency Response: Powell County Coroner’s Office, Missoula County Search and Rescue, Seeley Lake Rural Fire Department
• Investigation: Ongoing by FAA and NTSB

FAQ

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Additional Resources

• Fox News: Experienced Alabama Pilot, 2 Daughters Killed in Plane Crash
• Wikipedia: Bob Marshall Wilderness
• New York Post: Alabama Father, Two Daughters Killed in Plane Crash
• Google Search: Mark Anderson plane crash
• People: Alabama Pilot and Daughters Found Dead After Plane Crash
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Aircraft Education
• WAAY 31: Huntsville Father, Daughters Killed in Montana Plane Crash
• Google News: Montana plane crash investigation

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