Gospel Group The Nelons Mourns Loss of Members in Plane Crash
June 17, 2026 — The Christian music community is mourning the deaths of several members of the acclaimed gospel group The Nelons following a plane crash in Wyoming.
Authorities confirmed that seven people were killed when the twin-engine private aircraft went down en route to Alaska. The victims included pilot Larry Haynie and his wife Melissa Haynie, family assistant Melanie Hodges and her daughter Amber Hodges, Amber’s husband Nathan Kistler, and Nelons members Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark. Autumn Nelon Streetman, the only immediate family member not on board, was not involved in the incident.
The group had been traveling to perform on the Gaither Homecoming Cruise. The Nelons, known for decades of contributions to gospel music and their ministry of faith, hope, and encouragement, were widely respected in the Christian music world.
Preliminary reports indicate the aircraft encountered difficulties over Wyoming. Witnesses observed signs of distress before the plane crashed in a remote area and caught fire. Emergency responders reached the scene, but no survivors were found.
In a statement, Autumn Nelon Streetman thanked the public for prayers and support, describing the loss as overwhelming and asking for continued prayers for those affected. Fellow musicians, religious leaders, and fans have paid tribute to the victims’ musical legacies and dedication to ministry.
Investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash as the community reflects on the enduring impact of those lost.
