CBS Boise meteorologist Roland Steadham killed in Idaho plane crash

Boise: Roland Steadham, chief meteorologist at CBS affiliate KBOI in Boise, died Tuesday after a small aircraft crashed into the Payette River near Emmett, Idaho. One other person on board also lost their life, authorities confirmed.

The Gem County Sheriff’s Office said the aircraft struck a power line before plunging into the river shortly before 11 am. Emergency responders rushed to the scene but both occupants were pronounced dead. Officials have not yet released the identity of the second person or confirmed who was flying the plane at the time of the crash.

KBOI described Steadham as a highly skilled aviator who regularly operated small aircraft from the Emmett Municipal Airport. He held a commercial pilot’s licence and had logged more than 3,000 flight hours, including experience in aerobatic planes, twin-engine jets and gliders.

Steadham spent more than three decades in broadcast meteorology and earned multiple professional honours during his career. Before joining KBOI, he served as chief meteorologist at CBS affiliate KUTV in Salt Lake City from 2005 to 2009. He was a graduate of Brigham Young University and the University of Utah and was widely respected for mentoring young weather professionals.

Beyond broadcasting, Steadham was known for his love of hiking and animals and was often seen bringing his dog to the station.

He is survived by his wife, Erin, six children and several grandchildren.