Tragic Plane Crash Claims Life of Country Songwriter Brett James
New information has surfaced regarding the unfortunate plane crash that resulted in the death of Brett James, the talented country music songwriter renowned for Carrie Underwood’s famous song “Jesus Take the Wheel.”
A report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reveals that prior to the crash on September 18, James had taken off from Nashville’s John C. Thune Airport (JCA) en route to Macon County Airport (MCA) in Franklin, North Carolina. The plane was carrying three individuals: James, his wife Melody Carroll, aged 59, and their daughter Meryl Wilson, who was 28 at the time. Sadly, all aboard perished.
Approximately at 2:48 p.m. local time, James communicated with air traffic control, indicating that he was at an altitude of 6,800 feet and intended to perform a 360-degree turn to land at the runway. After that, however, there were no further communications from him.
The aircraft reportedly commenced a “left descending turn from an altitude of 6,300 feet,” made one full rotation, and then descended to 3,300 feet as it approached the runway.
“Surveillance footage indicated that the aircraft flew over the runway before beginning a left turn. It continued to descend in a left turn, eventually entering a steep spiral before crashing to the ground,” stated the NTSB in its findings. Witness accounts described the plane “swaying from side to side” and starting to descend behind the tree line.
The NTSB’s investigation found no indications of engine failure. The plane has been retrieved for a more thorough inspection.
Months before this tragic incident, James had shared precious moments with his family. He posted a joyful family photo on June 16, saying, “Such a great Father’s Day!!” just days before the accident, he also shared a fun beach selfie with Melody, referring to her as his “boyfriend.” The crash occurred shortly after they celebrated Meryl’s 28th birthday.
Throughout his remarkable career, which spanned several decades, James became one of Nashville’s most cherished songwriters, contributing to more than 500 songs recorded by numerous artists, including Faith Hill, Kelly Clarkson, Luke Bryan, and Keith Urban. In recognition of his achievements, he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020.
