Seven people, including three members of the Nelons quartet, were tragically killed in a plane crash in Wyoming. The Nelons co-founder, Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter, Amber Nelon Kistler, lost their lives in the crash. Another daughter, Autumn Nelon Streetman, who was not on board, confirmed the devastating news.
Also among the victims were Nelon Kistler's husband, Nathan Kistler, family friend Melodi Hodges, and Larry and Melissa Haynie. Larry Haynie, the chairman of the Georgia Board of Corrections, was remembered for his dedicated public service.
The group was en route to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska when the crash occurred. The aircraft, a single-engine turboprop Pilatus PC-12/47E, crashed in Campbell County, Wyoming, north of Gillette. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash, with preliminary findings suggesting an autopilot issue during flight.
The Nelons, inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016, were known for their contributions to gospel music, having won 10 GMA Dove Awards. The tragic accident has deeply impacted the gospel music community and beyond, prompting an outpouring of prayers and support for the families of the victims.