Beloved Idaho Meteorologist Killed in Small-Plane Crash Over Payette River
Not all accidents are what they first appear to be. When a routine flight ends in disaster, investigators and witnesses must piece together a sequence of events that doesn’t immediately make sense.
That’s the situation surrounding the tragic crash that claimed a familiar local voice, raising questions about the final moments over the frozen Payette River.
Roland Steadham, 67, a longtime chief meteorologist for CBS2 in Boise, died Tuesday morning when the small plane he was aboard struck a power line and crashed into the Payette River near Emmett.
The crash also killed a second occupant, whose identity has not yet been released. Local communities are left in shock and mourning.
Steadham was widely known across Idaho for guiding viewers through blizzards, heat waves, and other extreme conditions with calm expertise. Beyond his decades-long career in weather broadcasting, colleagues remember him as warm, generous, and passionate about both meteorology and aviation. Just days before the crash, he spoke to aviation students, helmet in hand, encouraging them to pursue their dreams in flight.
Tributes have been pouring in at CBS2 and along the riverbanks, where flowers, notes, and memories honor his life. Viewers recall his patient explanations of weather patterns, his genuine joy when speaking about his wife, Erin, their six children, and grandchildren, and the personal connections he made in communities across the state.
Authorities report that the small aircraft struck a power line before plunging into the frozen river, fatally injuring both men aboard. Investigators from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are examining the circumstances of the accident. Steadham was an experienced pilot with a commercial license and thousands of flight hours, and his enthusiasm for aviation was well known among colleagues and viewers alike.
As family, friends, and fans remember him, tributes highlight the impact of his life beyond the broadcast: mentorship, kindness, and a dedication that made viewers feel safer and more informed every day.
Conclusion
The loss of Roland Steadham leaves a profound void in the Idaho community. His legacy is measured not only in forecasts delivered but in the personal inspiration, calm guidance, and mentorship he provided. As investigations continue, the stories of his generosity, professionalism, and love for life will endure, reminding the community of the storms he helped them weather—both literal and metaphorical.