A devastating plane crash in Wyoming has claimed the lives of three members of the award-winning gospel group The Nelons, along with family members and others traveling with them, sending shockwaves through the Christian music community.
Those killed included Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler—key members of the internationally recognized gospel group. Also among the victims were Amber’s husband, Nathan Kistler; the family’s assistant, Melodi Hodges; and the pilot, Larry Haynie, and his wife, Melissa Haynie. All seven people aboard the aircraft died in the crash.
The sole surviving member of the immediate performing lineup, Autumn Nelon Streetman, was not on the flight. In a statement following the tragedy, she expressed gratitude for the prayers, support, and condolences from friends, fans, and the broader gospel community while describing the family’s grief as profound.
The aircraft, a Pilatus PC-12 single-engine turboprop, was en route from Nebraska toward Montana as part of the group’s travel to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska. The Nelons were scheduled to perform as part of the event, continuing a decades-long ministry rooted in gospel music and Christian faith.
For generations of listeners, The Nelons represented a significant presence in contemporary and traditional gospel music. Founded in the 1970s by Kelly Nelon Clark’s father, Rex Nelon, the group earned induction into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame and multiple Dove Awards for their performances blending faith-centered themes with polished musical arrangements.
The crash occurred on the afternoon of July 26, 2024, in a remote area of Campbell County, Wyoming, north of Gillette near Recluse. Preliminary reports from the National Transportation Safety Board indicated the pilot declared an emergency after reporting a loss of autopilot. Witnesses described hearing unusual engine noise and observing the aircraft before it went down. The plane impacted terrain and caught fire, with no survivors.
Investigators continue to examine the aircraft, flight data, maintenance records, weather conditions, and other evidence to determine the cause. Officials have noted that a complete picture may take time as the full investigation proceeds.
News of the crash prompted widespread mourning across the gospel music world. Fellow artists, industry organizations, event organizers, and longtime fans shared tributes remembering the Nelons’ contributions to Christian music and the personal connections they built with audiences over the years.
What was intended as a journey to another celebration of gospel music instead became a moment of collective loss. Friends and supporters who had anticipated seeing the family perform are now reflecting on lives dedicated to music, faith, family, and ministry.
As the investigation continues, the surviving family members and the wider community are navigating the difficult process of grief. Tributes are expected to continue in the days and weeks ahead as the gospel music community remembers those who were lost and offers support to those left behind.
