A tragic plane crash in the Montana wilderness claimed the lives of an experienced Alabama pilot and his two daughters. The incident occurred in a remote area of Bob Marshall Wilderness, located northeast of Seeley Lake.
Details of the Crash
The Powell County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) was notified of a potential downed aircraft on the afternoon of October 17, 2025. Search efforts led to the discovery of the wreckage the following morning at around 9 a.m.
Victims Identified
Mark Anderson, aged 62, was the pilot of the aircraft. His daughters, Lainey and Ellie, were 22 and 17 years old, respectively. Prior to the crash, they were reported missing by their local church, Monte Sano Baptist Church in Huntsville, Alabama.
- Mark Anderson: 62 years old
- Lainey Anderson: 22 years old, flight instructor
- Ellie Anderson: 17 years old
Flight Background
The Anderson family was traveling to Polson, Montana, for what was planned as a family vacation. Lainey, a certified flight instructor, was highly regarded in her field.
Investigation Underway
The PCSO has transferred the investigation to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). However, both agencies are currently unavailable for media inquiries due to a government shutdown.
Traumatic events such as this remind us of the inherent risks involved in aviation, especially in remote areas. The Anderson family is in the thoughts and prayers of their community during this difficult time.