Beloved Chief Meteorologist Dies In Small Plane Crash In Idaho
on Jan 29, 2026
TV Weatherman Killed In Plane Crash
A veteran CBS meteorologist and father was tragically killed when his plane hit a power line in Idaho this week.
Roland Steadham, a longtime on-air weatherman and chief meteorologist for CBS2, was killed Tuesday when a small plane crashed near Emmett, Idaho. He was one of two people on board, according to CBS affiliate KBOI.
“For the past decade, Roland Steadham guided people through storm after storm in Idaho,” the station wrote. “He loved to study the weather and shared it with people across Idaho. Roland’s excitement for the weather was contagious.”
Authorities say the crash was reported late Tuesday (January 27) morning near the Payette River, just west of Montour, Idaho. The Gem County Sheriff’s Office said crews were called to the scene around 10:58 a.m. after receiving word that a small plane had gone down in the area.
Investigators believe the aircraft struck a power line before crashing onto the ice-covered river. Both men on board were killed, officials said. They have not announced who was flying the plane at the time of the crash.
Remembering Roland Steadham
According to KBOI, Steadham was a loving father and grandfather.
“Roland often talked about his wife, Erin, and his six children and grandchildren,” KBOI said. “In recent years, he and his family have enjoyed their time kayaking throughout Idaho and spending time together grilling food in their backyard.”
In addition to his family, Steadham was passionate about aviation and often took to the skies in his own small plane.
“It was a hobby he enjoyed and often would share stories about local pilots and their accomplishments,” the outlet shared.
He worked at several different outlets as chief meteorologist, including Miami-based NBC affiliate WTVJ, CBS affiliate KUTV in Salt Lake City, ABC affiliate KTVX also in Salt Lake City, and CBS2 in Boise.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Roland Steadham’s family and friends during this unimaginable time.
