GEM COUNTY, IDAHO. (THECOUNT) —Roland Steadham, a 67-year-old veteran CBS meteorologist and longtime Idaho broadcaster, was killed Tuesday after a small aircraft clipped a power line and crashed into the icy Payette River near Emmett, Idaho, according to local authorities.
Steadham, who served as Chief Meteorologist at Boise-based CBS affiliate CBS2, was one of two people killed in the crash. The identity of the second victim had not been released as of Wednesday.
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According to online flight tracking data, the aircraft lost contact at approximately 10:55 a.m., about 12 minutes after taking off from Emmett Airport. The Gem County Sheriff’s Office confirmed preliminary findings indicate the plane struck a power line before plunging into the partially frozen river.
“Preliminary information indicates that a small plane clipped a power line and crashed upon the ice in the river,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement posted to social media.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene, where rescue teams were observed navigating the freezing river in boats as they worked to recover the victims. Officials said the crash occurred in a rural stretch of Gem County, complicating response efforts.
Authorities have not yet released details regarding the aircraft model. Records show the plane was registered to Northwest Registered Agent LLC. Investigators also said it remains unclear whether Steadham was piloting the aircraft at the time of the crash.
Steadham was widely regarded as an experienced and accomplished pilot, logging more than 3,000 flight hours over his aviation career. CBS2 reported that he regularly operated a small aircraft out of Emmett and was deeply passionate about flying.
Just one week before his death, Steadham visited students at Payette River Regional Technical Academy’s aviation program in Emmett, where he spoke about his love of aviation and encouraged students to pursue careers in flight.
“The last thing he said before leaving class was, ‘I’ve enjoyed years of flying… it’s been so good to me… and I’d really encourage you guys to pursue aviation,’” aviation instructor Jim Baker told Idaho6 News.
In addition to flying, Steadham was also an avid skydiver. He was a graduate of both Brigham Young University and the University of Utah.
Steadham’s broadcasting career spanned decades. He served as Chief Meteorologist at several major television stations, including NBC affiliate WTVJ in Miami, CBS affiliate KUTV in Salt Lake City, ABC affiliate KTVX in Salt Lake City, and most recently CBS2 in Boise.
Following news of his death, viewers across Idaho shared tributes online, remembering Steadham as both a trusted meteorologist and a kind, approachable member of the community.
Steadham is survived by his wife, six children, and several grandchildren.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation by local and federal authorities, including aviation officials. No further information has been released.
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