Two people perished in a plane crash at Ryan Field outside West Glacier Saturday morning. 

Law enforcement and rescue personnel initially responded to a report that an aircraft had gone off the runway at Ryan Field at approximately 9:41 a.m.

Witnesses said the plane was taking off when it crashed, according to Flathead County Sheriff Brian Heino. 

The single-engine plane was fully engulfed in flames upon arrival, and fire suppression efforts were initiated. 

“You could see the smoke from Highway 2,” Coram-West Glacier Volunteer Fire Department Chief Walter Tabb said as crews drove to the scene. 

The two people were identified as Dewight Steffanson, 69-year-old male of College Place, Washington, and Thomas Gladden, 68-year-old male of Otis Orchards, Washington.* 

The bodies will be transported to the Montana State Crime Lab for autopsies as part of the standard investigative process. 

The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration have been notified and have investigators in route to conduct a full investigation into the cause of the incident. 

The Hungry Horse Fire Department, Martin City Fire Department, Three Rivers Ambulance and members of the Flathead County Sheriff’s Posse also responded. 

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this tragic incident,” Heino said in a Facebook post. 

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or [email protected].

*Updated July 29 to provide identification.