A devastating plane crash has claimed the lives of seven people, including beloved members of the renowned gospel group, The Nelon family. Among the victims were Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler, and two other family members, all of whom had received Grammy nominations for their contributions to gospel music.

Also aboard the plane were Amber’s husband, Nathan Kistler, family employee Melodi Hodges, and the pilot, Larry Haynie, along with his wife Melissa. None of the passengers survived the crash.

One family member, Autumn Nelon Streetman, was not on the flight. The family and friends were en route to Alaska for the Gaither Homecoming Cruise when their plane tragically went down in Wyoming. The crash triggered a large forest fire, causing a swift emergency response. Just before the fatal flight, a video captured Jason engaging in conversation with his family and the pilot on a Nebraska runway during a refueling stop. The group appeared happy and excited about their upcoming journey.

The Wyoming sheriff’s office confirmed that all seven passengers aboard the Pilatus PC-12/47E plane, owned by Haynie Enterprises, had perished in the crash. The National Transportation Safety Board is conducting a thorough investigation into the incident.

In a moving statement, Autumn Nelon Streetman expressed her grief, saying, “As many of you know, my parents Jason and Kelly, along with my sister Amber, brother-in-law Nathan, and our dear friends Melodi, Larry, and Melissa, were involved in a tragic plane crash on Friday.” She thanked everyone for their support and prayers, adding, “Your prayers, love, and support will be invaluable as we navigate the coming days.”

The Nelons were inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016, a testament to their profound influence on the genre. With hits like “I Shall Not Be Moved,” “Come Morning,” and “We Shall Wear a Robe and Crown,” they had cemented their place in gospel music history. Throughout their illustrious career, the family received three Grammy nominations and left an indelible mark on the hearts of gospel music fans worldwide.

This tragic loss has left a deep void in the gospel music community, as The Nelons were considered one of the most influential families in the genre’s history. As the investigation into the accident unfolds, the legacy of The Nelon family will continue to inspire and uplift those who cherish their music.