A tragic plane crash claimed the lives of all seven individuals on board, including the Nelon family, a beloved gospel group in the United States. Among the deceased were Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler, and two other family members who had received Grammy nominations.
Additionally, Amber’s spouse Nathan Kistler, Melodi Hodges, an employee of the family, and pilot Larry Haynie along with his spouse Melissa, also lost their lives.
Season 4 of The Nelon, Autumn Nelon Streetman, was not present on the aircraft during the incident. The band members were en route to Alaska to participate in the Gaither Homecoming Cruise when their plane tragically crashed in Wyoming, causing a massive forest fire upon impact. A video captured moments before boarding the ill-fated flight shows Jason engaging in conversation with his family and the pilot on a runway in Nebraska, appearing cheerful. The pilot, Larry, is believed to be the owner of the jet visible in the background of the unsettling footage, taken during a refueling stop around noon.
There are seven individuals aboard the aircraft, with five of them visibly enjoying themselves, sharing laughter and discussing their upcoming journey. One person remarked that the plane had tragically crashed to the ground in flames, prompting a swift response from firefighters and emergency personnel as a wildfire erupted nearby. The Wyoming sheriff’s office reported that there were no survivors. In a heartfelt statement regarding the incident, Autumn Nelon Streetman expressed, “As many of you are aware, my parents, Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, along with my sister Amber, brother-in-law Nathan, and our cherished friends Melodi Hodges, Larry, and Melissa Haynie, were involved in a devastating plane crash on Friday.” She extended her gratitude for the prayers already offered for herself, her husband Jamie, their unborn son, and Jason’s parents, Dan and Linda Clark, stating, “Your prayers, love, and support will be invaluable as we navigate the coming days. Thank you.”
According to FlightAware.com, the aircraft in question was a Pilatus PC-12/47E belonging to Haynie Enterprises. The National Transportation Safety Board will conduct an investigation into the accident. In 2016, The Nelons were honored with induction into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame. They are widely regarded as one of the most influential families in the history of gospel music in the United States. Some of their most popular songs include “I Shall Not Be Moved,” “Come Morning,” and “We Shall Wear a Robe and Crown.” Throughout their career, they have received three Grammy nominations.
