Tragic Wyoming Plane Crash Claims the Lives of Three Members of The Nelons Atlanta Gospel Group
In an appalling turn of events, three members of the Atlanta-based Nelons gospel group, along with four others, lost their lives in a heartbreaking plane crash in Wyoming on Friday afternoon.
Who Were on Board
According to a statement issued by Gaither Management Group on Autumn Nelon Streetman’s Instagram feed, the deceased included Kelly Nelon Clark and Jason Clark, the parents of Autumn, and Amber Kistler, her elder sister. Amber’s husband, Nathan Kistler; Melodi Hodges, the group’s assistant; the pilot, Larry Haynie, and his wife, Melissa, were also killed in the devastating accident.
Autumn Nelon Streetman, the fourth member of the Nelons family-based quartet, and her husband, Jaimie Streetman, were informed about the mishap after they landed safely in Seattle.
Officials Confirm News
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp confirmed the tragic news, noting that Larry Haynie was the chairman of the Georgia Department of Corrections Board.
“Our entire family is urging everyone to join us in praying for the individuals who have been lost, their families and communities, and those in the gospel music community who lost close friends in this distressing mishap,” stated Governor Kemp.
About the Crash
The National Transportation Safety Board announced that the Pilatus PC-12/47e plane crashed in a remote location around 1:04 p.m. on Friday and investigations are underway. They are planning to start a thorough documentation of the scene and examine the aircraft after gaining access to the crash site.
The county government of Campbell County, Wyoming, confirmed via Facebook post that the private plane had crashed north of Gillette city, which had caused a wildland fire that the Campbell County Fire Department tried to contain.
The Nelons & Their Legacy
The members on the ill-fated plane were on-route to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska. Gaither Management Group, which sponsors this cruise, features numerous gospel singers and groups.
Autumn Nelon Streetman posted a heartfelt message on her social media page thanking everyone for their prayers and urging for continued support as they navigate the coming days.
The Nelons, active for several decades, have left a significant legacy in the music industry. They were inducted into the Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame in 2016 and their musical style included a blend of gospel, a cappella, hymns, Americana, folk, and inspirational music.
Community’s Response to the Tragedy
The community reacted in dismay to the shocking news. Friends from the Nelons’ hometown, Carrollton, Georgia, reminisced about their cherished memories with the members. Their closeness was evident in comments about how they viewed the performers, not as celebrities, but as dear friends.
The Villa Rica Police Department released a statement in honor of Larry and Lisa Haynie, acknowledging their dedication to the community and their generous contributions to the department.
This tragic incident has left the community and the gospel music industry greatly saddened, and our thoughts and prayers go out to their loved ones and fans across the globe.
