Three members of the Nelons, a Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame quartet, were among seven people killed in a plane crash in Wyoming, according to a statement by a group member who was not aboard the aircraft.
The Nelons co-founder, Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter, Amber Nelon Kistler died in the crash Friday afternoon, according to a statement from daughter Autumn Nelon Streetman.
“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,” Nelon Streetman said. “We appreciate your continued prayers, love and support as we navigate the coming days.”
Also killed in the crash were Nelon Kistler’s husband, Nathan Kistler, family friend Melodi Hodges, and Larry and Melissa Haynie, according to Nelon Streetman.
There were no survivors.
The group was traveling to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska, according to a statement from Gaither Music Group, the sponsor of the cruise that features numerous gospel singers and groups.
Gaither Music said Hodges was an assistant for the band. Larry Haynie was pilot of the aircraft, and Melissa Haynie was his wife. The aircraft was identified as a single engine turboprop Pilatus PC-12/47E.
The crash occurred about 1 p.m. in Campbell County, Wyoming, north of Gillette and about 250 miles (402 kilometers) north of Cheyenne, according to a statement from Campbell County spokesperson Leslie Perkins.
The National Transportation Safety Board spokesperson Keith Holloway said Saturday that a team of investigators is expected at the site later Saturday.
“The aircraft is in a remote location and once they gain access, they will begin documenting the scene, examining the aircraft,” Holloway said. “The aircraft will then be recovered and taken to a secure facility for further evaluation.”
A preliminary report on the crash is expected in about 30 days while a final report with the probable cause of the crash could take up to two years to complete, Holloway said.
The Nelons were inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016 and were winners of 10 GMA Dove Awards, including multiple song of the year and album of the year awards.
Tragedy struck the world of gospel music on Tuesday when a small plane carrying seven people, including three members of the renowned Gospel Music Hall of Fame quartet, crashed in a remote area of Wyoming. The group had been traveling to a concert in a neighboring state when the accident occurred.
The quartet, known for their powerful harmonies and uplifting lyrics, had been a staple in the gospel music industry for decades. Their music had touched the hearts of millions around the world and had earned them a dedicated following of fans.
The names of the quartet members have not been released pending notification of their families, but their loss has sent shockwaves through the gospel music community. Many artists and fans have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the quartet’s music.
In addition to the quartet members, four others were also killed in the crash, including the pilot of the plane. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest that inclement weather may have played a role.
The loss of these talented musicians is a devastating blow to the gospel music industry, but their legacy will live on through their music. Their songs will continue to inspire and uplift listeners for generations to come.
As the gospel music community mourns the loss of these beloved artists, they are coming together to support each other and honor the memory of those who were lost. Concerts and tributes are being planned to celebrate the lives and music of the quartet members and to pay tribute to their contributions to the genre.
In times of tragedy, music has a unique ability to bring comfort and healing to those who are grieving. The gospel music community will undoubtedly rally around each other in this difficult time, finding solace in the power of music to uplift and inspire.
As more details emerge about the crash and the lives lost, the gospel music community will continue to come together to remember and honor those who were taken too soon. Their music may have been silenced, but their legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by their talent and passion for gospel music.
