Search called off; fatal crash discovered

The Montana Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that was discovered Monday off U.S. 93 in the Lakeside area.

Kalispell school administrators confirmed the driver was Scott Peiffer, a 41-year-old Kalispell man who had been the focus of a search since Sunday.

Trooper Jim Schneider said the red Jeep Wrangler was being driven southbound on U.S. 93 near Lakeview Drive when it swerved off the left side of the highway, went down a steep embankment, collided with a tree and then rolled and flipped.

“The driver was ejected. There was no seat belt used,” Schneider said. 

The Highway Patrol was notified at about 12:40 p.m. Monday, and Schneider said he believes the wreckage was discovered by the property owners. 

When the crash occurred is still under investigation, Schneider said.

Friends and family of Peiffer put out email and media notices Monday seeking help in finding Peiffer, who was last seen at 6 a.m. Sunday near his home on Hilltop Drive. He was driving a red 1995 Jeep Wrangler. 

Kalispell Public Schools also put out search notices because Peiffer’s wife, Kari, is a teacher at Peterson Elementary School. “Scott, Kari and their children have close ties to the Wolfpack community and we would appreciate any help that we can get in locating Scott,” read an email alert from Glacier High School Principal Callie Langohr.

According to an afternoon update from Langohr: “It has recently been confirmed that Scott Peiffer was in a fatal car accident. Please keep Kari and her family in your prayers.” 

Friends of Peiffer’s family said he worked at Anderson Masonry for years and recently became part owner of a tool business. The Peiffers have two sons.