Tragedy struck on Friday afternoon in Wyoming when a plane crash claimed the lives of seven individuals, including three members of the storied gospel quartet, The Nelons. As reported by Atlanta News First, the family group comprised of Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler tragically lost their lives in the incident. Autumn Nelon Streetman, another daughter and quartet member, was not on the plane and has reached out to ask for prayers and support during this difficult time.
The aircraft, a single-engine turboprop Pilatus PC-12/47E, was carrying the family to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise in Alaska. Included among the deceased were pilot Larry Haynie, who served as chairman of the Georgia Board of Corrections, and his wife Melissa, as well as the couple’s assistant Melodi Hodges, and Amber's husband Nathan Kistler. In a statement obtained by AP News, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp remembered Haynie for "a career of valued public service" and urged prayers for everyone impacted by this catastrophe.
According to the Campbell County statement cited by both sources, the plane went down north of Gillette around 1 p.m. The crash also sparked a wildfire that local firefighters were swiftly called to contain. Aviation attorney Ladd Sanger provided insight into the possible cause, noting to Atlanta News First, "Another Pilatus crash where the autopilot appeared to malfunction," adding further detail about the problems associated with the aircraft's autopilot system.
The National Transportation Safety Board is leading an investigation into the tragic event. National Transportation Safety Board spokesperson Keith Holloway told AP News, "The aircraft is in a remote location and once they gain access, they will begin documenting the scene, examining the aircraft," with the preliminary findings expected to be released within 30 days. A complete report, detailing the probable cause, may take as long as two years to finalize.
The Nelons, whose legacy dates back to the '80s and includes multiple Grammy nominations and Dove Awards, was also celebrated for their induction into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016. Just moments before the tragedy, the group shared a post on Instagram, showing them by the plane, unaware of the fate that awaited them. The gospel music community and fans around the world are now mourning the loss of these cherished artists, as noted in their management's statement.
