A tragic plane crash in Wyoming claimed the lives of three members of the renowned Gospel group, The Nelons, as well as four others. The members included Kelly Nelon Clark, Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler, along with Kistler’s husband Nathan, and their assistant Melodi Hodges. The pilot, Larry Haynie, and his wife, Melissa, were also killed in the accident. The Nelons are inductees of the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame.
The crash occurred on July 26, 2024, while the Atlanta-based quartet was en route to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise in Alaska. The aircraft, a Pilatus PC-12/47E, went down near Gillette, Wyoming, at around 1 p.m. local time, sparking a wildfire that local fire departments labored to contain, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Autumn Nelon Streetman, the surviving member of the group who was not aboard the flight, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support for her family. She appreciated the prayers offered for her, her husband Jamie, their unborn son, and for the parents of Jason Clark, Dan and Linda.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp extended his condolences, specifically noting the loss of Larry Haynie, chairman of the Georgia Board of Corrections. Kemp urged everyone to pray for those who lost their lives, their loved ones and communities, and the entire gospel music community which was deeply affected by this tragedy.
The NTSB has initiated an investigation into the crash, with preliminary information pointing towards an autopilot issue. Keith Holloway, NTSB Media Relations Specialist, stated that the investigation was in its early stages and that the limited information available at this time was due to the remote location of the crash. Investigators will commence their examination of the scene and the aircraft once accessible, after which the aircraft will be sent to a secure facility for further evaluation.
The Nelons, established by Rex Nelon in the late 1970s, have a long-standing history in the gospel music industry. Over the years, the group released numerous albums, garnered several Grammy nominations, and won multiple Gospel Music Association (GMA) Dove Awards. They were inducted into the GMA Hall of Fame in 2016 for their significant contributions to gospel music.
In a released statement, Gaither Music Management expressed deep sorrow over the loss and pledged to support the surviving family members. Streetman and her husband Jamie will temporarily stay with Kelly’s brother, Todd Nelon, and his wife, Rhonda. The organization asked for prayers for them, as well as the Kistler, Haynie, and Hodges families.
The tragedy has profoundly impacted the gospel music community, with many expressing their condolences and support. Gospel Music Association President, Jackie Patillo, remarked that The Nelons were a pillar of the gospel music community and their loss will be deeply felt. She extended prayers to the families and friends affected by this accident.
The Gaither Homecoming Cruise, which was set to feature performances by various Christian artists, has been postponed. The organizers are actively working with the affected families to provide support and assistance during this challenging time.
As the investigation continues, the gospel music community and fans worldwide are mourning the loss of The Nelons and their associates. Despite the tragedy, their legacy in gospel music is expected to endure, given their significant contributions and influence over the decades.