Investigation Underway After Plane Crash Claims Life of Yellowstone County Commissioner

On Thursday, June 19, 2025, just after 2:15 p.m., emergency crews were dispatched to the area near the 6100 block of Blue Creek Road in Billings, Montana, following reports that an airplane had crashed and caught fire.

According to Sheriff Mike Linder of the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office, Law enforcement, fire, and EMS teams responded quickly to the scene.

Fire Extinguished, One Fatality Confirmed

Upon arrival, crews were able to put out the flames. After extinguishing the fire, responders discovered a single occupant inside the aircraft. Tragically, the individual was pronounced dead at the scene.

Victim Identified as Commissioner John Ostlund

Authorities say that this afternoon they were able to confirm the identity of the victim using fingerprint analysis. The deceased has been positively identified as John Ostlund, a respected Yellowstone County Commissioner who had long served the Billings community.

Federal Investigators Now on Scene

On the morning of Friday, June 20, investigators from both the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) arrived in Billings.

READ MORE: Outpouring of Grief Follows Death of Yellowstone County Commissioner John Ostlund

They met with members of the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office and are now actively investigating the crash site. Their work will include collecting data, examining the aircraft, and reviewing flight conditions at the time of the crash.

No Cause Determined Yet

At this time, officials have not released any preliminary findings regarding the cause of the crash. According to the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office, that information is expected to come from the NTSB after their full investigation is complete.

Further Details Pending

The Sheriff’s Office has stated that further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

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A Community Mourns

Commissioner John Ostlund was known for his dedication to public service and his leadership in Yellowstone County. News of his death has left a deep impact on the community and colleagues across the state.