Incident Timeline
The crash took place around 1 p.m. local time, north of Gillette, near the Wyoming-Montana border. The Campbell County Sheriff’s Office reported receiving a distress signal from the aircraft before it went down. Eyewitnesses saw columns of smoke rising from the remote crash site, indicating a significant fire had been sparked by the impact.
Emergency responders, including firefighters, sheriff’s deputies, and EMS personnel, were dispatched to the scene to combat the wildfire and search for survivors. Unfortunately, there were no survivors among the seven individuals on board. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the crash, with more details expected to emerge in the coming days.
The Nelons and Their Tragic Loss
The plane crash claimed the lives of Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler, and her husband Nathan Kistler. Also on board were Melodi Hodges, the family’s assistant, and the pilot Larry Haynie along with his wife, Melissa Haynie. This tragic event has left the gospel music community and fans of The Nelons in deep mourning.
The Nelons, an esteemed group in the gospel music world, have a rich history of spreading their musical ministry. Originally founded by Rex Nelon, Kelly Nelon Clark’s father, the group has been a staple in the genre for decades. They were inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2016 and received a Grammy nomination for Best Southern Gospel Album for “Let The Redeemed Say So” in 1991.
The Gaither Homecoming
The Nelons were traveling to participate in the Gaither Homecoming Cruise, an event organized by Bill and Gloria Gaither, prominent figures in the gospel music scene. The Gaither Vocal Band’s “Jerusalem Homecoming” concerts are well-known for bringing together the best in gospel music. The crash has cast a shadow over the event, with fellow artists and fans deeply affected by the loss.
Statements and Reactions
Autumn Nelon Streetman, the surviving daughter of Jason and Kelly, and her husband Jamie Streetman were not on the flight. Autumn shared a heartfelt statement on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers from the community:
“As many of you have heard by now, my father and mother, Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, along with my sister, Amber, and brother-in-law, Nathan, as well as our dear friends Melodi Hodges, Larry, and Melissa Haynie, were involved in a tragic plane crash on Friday. 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. We appreciate your continued prayers, love, and support as we navigate the coming days.”
The Gaither Management Group also released a statement, mourning the loss of the Nelons and other victims:
“One of the best-loved gospel music families in America, The Nelons were involved in a tragic, fatal plane crash on Friday afternoon on their way to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska. We pledge to support Autumn and Jamie Streetman in whatever needs arise during this difficult time.”
As the investigation into the crash continues, the families of the victims are asking for privacy and prayers. The Nelons’ legacy will undoubtedly endure through their music and the impact they’ve had on the gospel community. This tragic loss serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of faith and music to bring solace in times of sorrow.
For more updates on the investigation and ways to support the families, stay tuned.
