In a devastating incident, seven individuals, including three members of the esteemed Nelons, a Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame quartet, lost their lives in a plane crash in Wyoming. The tragic accident occurred on Friday afternoon, as the Nelons were en route to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska.

The Nelons co-founder, Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter, Amber Nelon Kistler, were among the victims of the crash, as confirmed in a heartfelt statement by another daughter, Autumn Nelon Streetman. Expressing her gratitude for the outpouring of support, Autumn Nelon Streetman requested continued prayers for her and her husband as they anticipate the arrival of their baby boy, as well as for Jason's parents, Dan and Linda Clark.

Also among those lost in the tragic accident were Melodi Hodges, a family friend and assistant for the band, Nathan Kistler (Amber Nelon Kistler's husband), and Larry and Melissa Haynie. Larry Haynie, identified as the pilot of the aircraft, and Melissa Haynie, his wife, perished as well.

The crash took place in Campbell County, Wyoming, north of Gillette, approximately 250 miles (402 kilometers) north of Cheyenne. According to the Campbell County spokesperson, Leslie Perkins, the fire resulting from the crash has been contained to an area of less than one square mile, with firefighting efforts ongoing throughout the day.

Preliminary information from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) suggests that the plane crashed due to an auto-pilot issue during the flight. A team of investigators is being dispatched to the site to document the scene and evaluate the aircraft, a single engine turboprop Pilatus PC-12/47E. However, NTSB spokesperson Keith Holloway emphasized that a final report, including the probable cause of the crash, may take up to two years to complete.

The Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame inducted the Nelons in 2016, and the quartet had garnered 10 GMA Dove Awards, including accolades for Song of the Year and Album of the Year. The loss reverberates deeply throughout the gospel music community, with support pouring in for the families and loved ones affected by the heartbreaking accident.

As the investigation unfolds and the victims are mourned, the Nelons' contributions to gospel music and their enduring legacy will be remembered by fans and fellow artists alike.