Three members of The Nelons, a Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame quartet, tragically lost their lives in a plane crash in Wyoming. The Nelons co-founder, Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter, Amber Nelon Kistler, were among those killed in the crash. Another daughter, Autumn Nelon Streetman, expressed her gratitude for the prayers and support given to her family during this difficult time. Additional victims of the crash included Nathan Kistler, Melodi Hodges, and Larry and Melissa Haynie. There were no survivors.
The group was on their way to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska at the time of the crash. Gaither Music Group, the sponsor of the cruise featuring various gospel singers and groups, confirmed the tragic news and stated that Hodges was an assistant for The Nelons. Larry Haynie, the pilot of the aircraft, and his wife Melissa, were also onboard. The type of aircraft involved in the crash was identified as a single engine turboprop Pilatus PC-12/47E. The crash occurred in a remote area of Campbell County, Wyoming, disrupting the lives of all seven individuals on board.
The National Transportation Safety Board announced that a team of investigators was on their way to the crash site to document the scene and examine the aircraft. The preliminary report on the crash was expected to be released in about 30 days, while a final report determining the probable cause could take up to two years to complete. The Nelons were a highly respected group in the gospel music industry, having been inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016 and winning 10 GMA Dove Awards, including multiple song of the year and album of the year awards.
The tragic events of the plane crash have left the gospel music community and fans in shock and mourning. The loss of three members of The Nelons has deeply affected their loved ones and fellow musicians. The outpouring of prayers and support for the Nelon, Clark, Kistler, Hodges, Haynie, and all the families involved has been heartfelt and continues as they navigate the coming days and weeks. The impact of this tragedy will be felt for years to come as the memories of these talented musicians and their contributions to the industry live on. The Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame quartet will forever hold a special place in the hearts of their fans.
