Three members of the gospel group The Nelons—Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Kistler—tragically died in a plane crash that also claimed four other lives. The news was confirmed by Kelly’s daughter and fellow group member, Autumn Nelon Streetman.
In a heartfelt post, Autumn shared, “As many of you have heard, my father and mother, Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, along with my sister Amber, my brother-in-law Nathan Kistler, and our dear friends Melodi Hodges, Larry Haynie, and Melissa Haynie were involved in a devastating plane crash on Friday. Your prayers for me, my husband Jamie, our soon-to-be-born baby boy, and Jason’s parents, Dan and Linda Clark, are deeply appreciated as we navigate this difficult time.”
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According to Gaither Music Group and AP News, the group members and their companions were en route to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska when the crash occurred. All seven on board were killed.
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The Nelons, who were inducted into the Gospel Music Association (GMA) Hall of Fame in 2016 and have won 10 Dove Awards, were known for their contributions to gospel music, including the 2021 GMA Dove Award for Bluegrass/Country/Roots Recorded Song of the Year for “If God Pulled Back The Curtain.”
Before their fatal flight, The Nelons shared a video on Instagram. In it, Jason announced, “Homecoming Alaskan Cruise, we just landed in Nebraska” and introduced their fans to the pilot and crew. The video, now a poignant reminder of their final moments, has been met with an outpouring of tributes and disbelief.
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“Little did they know none of them would survive this. Our plans are nothing compared to God’s,” one commenter reflected. Another wrote, “This is like a final farewell,” and a third added, “Wow! No words…😢 praying for their families and friends. I am sure this video will be one their families keep close to their hearts.”
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the accident involving a single-engine turboprop Pilatus PC-12/47E. According to CNN, the aircraft is in a remote location, and once access is gained, officials will document the scene, examine the aircraft, and then recover it for further evaluation. NTSB spokesperson Keith Holloway stated, “The aircraft will then be taken to a secure facility for further evaluation.”
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Our deepest condolences go out to the families and friends affected by this tragic loss. May they rest in peace.
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