CBS2 Idaho chief meteorologist Roland Steadham died in a plane crash on Tuesday, January 27, near Emmett, local authorities and CBS affiliate KBOI reported.

According to the Gem County Sheriff's Office, the crash was reported at 10:58 am In the morning, a small plane with two occupants crashed into the Payette River, just west of the town of Montour. Preliminary information indicates that the aircraft clipped a power line before hitting the river ice. Both occupants, identified as men, died at the scene. Authorities have not yet determined who was piloting the plane at the time of the crash. Career and Legacy: Steadham, 67, was a well-known figure on local television. For more than a decade, he was the face guiding Idahoans through storms and extreme weather events.

“He loved studying the weather and sharing it with people throughout Idaho. His enthusiasm was contagious,” KBOI said in a farewell message.

A graduate of the University of Utah and Brigham Young University, Steadham began his career as a meteorologist in 1995, establishing himself as a leading voice in the region.

Personal Life and Passion for Aviation

The network noted that Steadham was a devoted husband, father of six, and grandfather, and that he frequently spoke about his family, with whom he enjoyed outdoor activities such as kayaking and family gatherings at home.

In addition to his work in television, he owned a small aircraft and enjoyed recreational flying, a hobby he often discussed with colleagues and viewers.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the accident and noted The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be in charge of the investigation to determine the exact causes of the crash. Authorities indicated that official updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.