A fatal aircraft accident claimed the lives of three members of the iconic gospel quartet, the Nelons.
The Nelons, recognized in the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame, faced a devastating loss when three of their members perished in a Wyoming plane crash along with four others while en route to a cruise event, Fox News reported.
Those lost in the tragedy were Kelly Nelon Clark, Jason Clark, Amber Nelon Kistler from the Nelons, Amber's spouse Nathan Kistler, their assistant Melodi Hodges, and the pilot Larry Haynie with his wife, Melissa. The accident occurred around 1 p.m. on a Friday in Campbell County as the group was traveling to the Gaither Homecoming Cruise set for Alaska. This aircraft was a Pilatus PC-12/47E, known for its single-engine turboprop configuration.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) brought Keith Holloway on board to spearhead the investigation starting Saturday following the crash. A preliminary report from the NTSB is anticipated within the next 30 days, although the final report might take up to two years to complete.
The accident profoundly impacted the family, particularly Autumn Nelon Streetman, a companion member of the Nelons, who was not present on the aircraft. Facing personal loss while expecting a child, Autumn expressed deep gratitude for the support received during this difficult period.
Autumn Nelon Streetman said, "Thank you for the prayers that have been extended already to me, my husband, Jamie, and our soon-to-be-born baby boy, as well as Jason’s parents, Dan and Linda Clark."
Gaither Music Group, representing the Nelons, outlined the next steps for the bereaved. "Autumn and Jamie will return home for now to Kelly’s brother, Todd Nelon, and his wife, Rhonda, to begin the hard tasks that lie ahead. Please keep them, the Kistler family, the Haynie family, and the family of Melodi Hodges in your prayers," they stated.
The ongoing investigation seeks to explore the exact causes behind the accident, with a focus on the aircraft's condition and circumstances right before the crash. Keith Holloway shared details about the investigative process.
"The aircraft is in a remote location, and once they gain access, they will begin documenting the scene, examining the aircraft," Holloway explained. After the onsite investigation, the aircraft will be moved to a secure facility for further detailed examination.
The NTSB's proceedings are critical in preventing future such tragedies by pinpointing the root causes and potential oversights in aviation practices.
The Nelons have long been celebrated in the world of gospel music, marked by their inclusion in the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and appearances at major events like the 52nd GMA Dove Awards. Their contributions to gospel music span decades, with a blend of melodious harmony and dedicated worship.
As the music community and families grieve, the focus also falls on legacy—the music, memories, and impact left behind by the Nelons and those lost. Although an integral part of the group's voice has been silenced, their influence on gospel music will undoubtedly endure.
This tragic event not only underscores the perils of aviation but also marks a significant loss in the gospel music scene, prompting an outpouring of support and condolences from fans and fellow artists worldwide. With the ongoing investigation, all those touched by this catastrophe look towards understanding and eventually finding closure.
