A devastating plane crash in southwestern Idaho has left a close-knit community in mourning after a longtime television meteorologist—widely regarded as a reassuring and familiar presence—was killed while flying over the Payette River. The incident has shaken viewers, colleagues, aviation professionals, and students alike, as tributes pour in for a man remembered not only for his expertise but for his generosity, humility, and passion for both weather and flight.
Authorities confirmed that a small aircraft crashed Tuesday near Emmett, Idaho, after striking a power line and plunging onto an icy section of the Payette River in the Black Canyon area. Two people were on board the plane at the time of the crash, and both were pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency responders from the Gem County Sheriff’s Office and Gem County Fire and EMS were dispatched shortly after the incident was reported near a jet ski park turnout.
Investigators say the aircraft lost contact shortly after departing from Emmett Airport late Tuesday morning. Online flight tracking data shows the plane took off at approximately 10:43 a.m. and disappeared from radar roughly 12 minutes later. The aircraft was registered to Northwest Registered Agent LLC. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading the investigation, and officials say it remains too early to determine the exact cause of the crash.
Recovered from the wreckage were multiple GoPro cameras, which investigators believe may provide valuable insight into the final moments of the flight. Authorities noted that weather conditions, mechanical factors, and environmental obstacles are all being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
While the crash itself was sudden and tragic, the loss has reverberated far beyond the immediate scene. For decades, one of the victims had been a steady and trusted presence in living rooms across the region, helping families navigate everything from summer heatwaves to winter storms. His calm demeanor during severe weather and his ability to explain complex forecasts in a clear, reassuring way made him a household name in the Treasure Valley.
Just days before the fatal crash, the meteorologist had visited aviation students at the Payette River Regional Technical Academy in Emmett. During that visit, he spoke passionately about flying, encouraging students to pursue careers in aviation and to appreciate the unique perspective that comes with being in the air. According to aviation instructor Jim Baker, the visit left a lasting impression on students.
“He talked about flying as a way of seeing the world differently,” Baker said. “He encouraged them to chase their interests and never stop learning.”
A Beloved Local Figure
The victim was Roland Steadham, the longtime Chief Meteorologist for CBS2 Boise, who was 67 years old at the time of his death.
CBS2 confirmed Steadham’s passing in a statement released shortly after authorities identified the victims. “It is with great sadness that we share that beloved CBS2 Chief Meteorologist Roland Steadham died in a plane crash on Tuesday,” the station said. “He and another person were on the plane when it crashed on the Payette River near Emmett.”
For viewers across Idaho, Steadham was more than just a weather forecaster. He was a constant—someone people trusted during moments of uncertainty, whether facing incoming snowstorms, wildfire smoke, or dangerous heat. Colleagues described him as steady, thoughtful, and deeply committed to serving the community.
Steadham had served as CBS2’s chief meteorologist for more than a decade, but his career in broadcast meteorology spanned more than 35 years. He previously worked in Florida and Utah before settling in Idaho, where he quickly became a fixture in the Treasure Valley. His enthusiasm for weather was widely admired, and younger meteorologists often credited him as a mentor who shaped their careers.
“Roland’s excitement for the weather was contagious,” the station said in a tribute. “He loved explaining it, teaching it, and helping people understand what was coming their way.”
A Life Rooted in Family and Community
Those who knew Steadham personally say his professional accomplishments only tell part of the story. Above all else, he was devoted to his family. He is survived by his wife, Erin, and six children, as well as grandchildren he frequently spoke about with pride.
According to CBS2, Steadham rarely went a day without mentioning his family. Whether in the newsroom or out in the community, he often shared stories about his children’s accomplishments and his joy at spending time with his grandchildren. He especially cherished outdoor activities with his family, including kayaking across Idaho’s rivers, grilling in the backyard, and simply enjoying nature together.
Colleagues also remembered Steadham for his love of animals. His dog was a familiar sight at the station, often accompanying him to work and sitting quietly nearby as he delivered forecasts—an endearing detail that reflected his gentle, approachable nature.
A Passion for Aviation
Outside of broadcasting, Steadham was an accomplished pilot with more than 3,000 flight hours logged over the years. Flying was not just a hobby but a lifelong passion. He operated a small aircraft out of Emmett and frequently spoke about aviation with colleagues, students, and fellow pilots.
Those close to him say he approached flying with the same respect and preparation that defined his work as a meteorologist. He understood weather from both a scientific and practical perspective, and friends described him as meticulous and safety-conscious.
His involvement with aviation education, including visits to technical schools and conversations with aspiring pilots, reflected his desire to share knowledge and encourage others to pursue their dreams.
Education and Professional Legacy
Steadham’s path to broadcasting was built on a strong academic foundation. He studied at Brigham Young University and the University of Utah before completing the prestigious Mississippi State University Broadcast and Operational Meteorology Program. Over the years, he earned both the American Meteorological Society Seal of Approval and the National Weather Association Seal of Approval—credentials that underscore his professionalism and expertise.
Beyond his on-air work, Steadham helped train and mentor countless meteorologists who now work in television markets across the country. Many former colleagues and students have shared messages remembering him as patient, generous with his time, and genuinely invested in the success of others.
An Ongoing Investigation and a Lasting Impact
As investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, the community remains focused on honoring Steadham’s life and legacy. Memorial messages have flooded social media, with viewers recalling how his forecasts helped them plan their days and feel safe during severe weather.
For many in Idaho, the loss feels deeply personal. Steadham was a familiar face during early mornings and late evenings, someone who guided viewers through storms year after year. His absence leaves a noticeable void—not just on television screens, but in the broader fabric of the community he served for decades.
While questions about the cause of the crash remain unanswered, one thing is clear: Roland Steadham’s impact will endure. Through the lives he touched, the students he inspired, and the trust he earned from viewers, his legacy will continue long after the investigation concludes.
Emily Johnson is a critically acclaimed essayist and novelist known for her thought-provoking works centered on feminism, women’s rights, and modern relationships. Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, Emily grew up with a deep love of books, often spending her afternoons at her local library. She went on to study literature and gender studies at UCLA, where she became deeply involved in activism and began publishing essays in campus journals. Her debut essay collection, Voices Unbound, struck a chord with readers nationwide for its fearless exploration of gender dynamics, identity, and the challenges faced by women in contemporary society. Emily later transitioned into fiction, writing novels that balance compelling storytelling with social commentary. Her protagonists are often strong, multidimensional women navigating love, ambition, and the struggles of everyday life, making her a favorite among readers who crave authentic, relatable narratives. Critics praise her ability to merge personal intimacy with universal themes. Off the page, Emily is an advocate for women in publishing, leading workshops that encourage young female writers to embrace their voices. She lives in Seattle with her partner and two rescue cats, where she continues to write, teach, and inspire a new generation of storytellers.
