In a devastating incident, three members of the renowned gospel group, the Nelons, along with four other individuals, lost their lives in a plane crash near Gillette, Wyoming. The victims included Kelly Nelon Clark, Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler, who were on their way to the Gaither Homecoming Cruise in Alaska. The crash occurred on Friday afternoon.

The Nelons, a widely beloved gospel music family, had been hailed as one of the best in America. Kelly Nelon Clark, a member since 1977 when her father Rex Nelon founded the group, was a inductee of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. The tragedy also claimed the lives of Nathan Kistler, Amber's husband, and their assistant, Melodi Hodges. The pilot, Larry Haynie, and his wife, Melissa, were also among the victims.

The group's management, Gaither Management Group, expressed deep sorrow and announced the heartbreaking news in a statement. They highlighted the Nelons' journey to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska and mourned the loss of their talented members.

Autumn Nelon Streetman, Jason and Kelly's other daughter, who is also a member of the Nelons, fortunately did not board the ill-fated flight. She, along with other Nelon family members, had chosen a different flight that stopped in Seattle instead.

Autumn Nelon Streetman conveyed her grief through a statement, acknowledging the outpouring of prayers from well-wishers. She thanked everyone for their support during this difficult time and requested continued prayers for her family as they cope with the tragedy. Autumn is also expecting a baby boy, and her husband, Jamie, was mentioned in her gratitude.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has commenced an investigation into the crash. Preliminary information suggests that an autopilot issue during the flight may have been a factor in the accident. Representatives from the NTSB stated that the crash site, which is in a remote area, needs to be accessed before further examination can be conducted. They plan to document the scene thoroughly and then move the aircraft to a secure facility for detailed evaluation.

The gospel music industry and fans worldwide share in the grief caused by this tragic incident. The loss of the Nelons, a beloved gospel group, and the other lives onboard the ill-fated plane is a profound loss to the music community. May they all rest in peace, and may their families find strength and solace during this difficult time.