Alabama Pilot and His Two Daughters Tragically Killed in Montana Plane Crash
A heartbreaking tragedy has struck an Alabama family after a small aircraft carrying Mark Anderson and his two young daughters, Lainey and Ellie, was discovered crashed in the Bob Marshall Wilderness area of Montana.
Authorities confirmed that all three were found dead at the crash site after an extensive search effort that began late Friday evening.
The Final Flight
According to the Powell County Sheriff’s Office, a distress call about a possible downed aircraft was reported around 4:30 p.m. local time on Friday, October 17.
Search and rescue operations immediately began, with air crews from Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls working tirelessly through the night.
By Saturday morning, October 18, a volunteer aircraft from the Montana Department of Transportation Aeronautics Division located the wreckage in northern Powell County. Officials confirmed that a pilot and two passengers were deceased upon arrival.
The investigation into what caused the crash has now been turned over to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Community in Alabama Prays for a Miracle
Before the tragic confirmation, the Monte Sano Baptist Church in Huntsville — where the Anderson family were active members — had asked the community for urgent prayers as the search continued.
“Mark, Lainey, and Ellie Anderson went missing yesterday while flying to Polson,” church members wrote on Facebook. “Mark is an experienced pilot, and we’re holding onto hope that he made a safe landing in a remote area. Weather complicated and delayed rescue efforts, but search teams are back out this morning.”
As the heartbreaking news spread, local media outlets WSFA 12 and WBRC 6 later confirmed that the deceased were indeed Mark, Lainey, and Ellie Anderson.
In a follow-up post, the church shared its grief and continued prayers for the family:
“We know it is a very remote area and will take time. Our prayer is for the complete safety of Mark, Lainey, and Ellie, as well as their dog Stella. Pray for their safety, that they are unharmed, and for Misty — their wife and mother — as we all wait. We trust in God’s protection and are asking for a miracle.”
Remembering a Loving Father and His Daughters
Friends describe Mark Anderson as a dedicated father, a skilled pilot, and a man of deep faith. His daughters, Lainey and Ellie, were known for their bright smiles, love of adventure, and the unbreakable bond they shared with their dad.
The Anderson family’s loss has sent shockwaves through both the Alabama and Montana communities. Tributes have poured in on social media, where neighbors, friends, and strangers alike have shared messages of love and prayer.
“Our hearts are broken,” one local wrote. “Mark and his girls were full of light. They will never be forgotten.”
As investigators work to determine what led to the tragic crash, one thing remains clear — the Anderson family’s faith and love touched countless lives, and their legacy will continue to inspire those who knew them.
🕊️ May Mark, Lainey, and Ellie rest in eternal peace.
