A tragic plane crash in the mountains of Colorado has claimed the lives of four men from Tennessee, sending shockwaves through the community of Franklin and beyond. Authorities confirmed that the victims were 47-year-old Aaron Stokes of Franklin; his 21-year-old son, Jakson Stokes; their 21-year-old nephew and cousin, Colin Stokes; and 38-year-old Austin Huskey. All four men were from Tennessee and died in the early morning crash.
According to Routt County Coroner Mitch Locke, the private aircraft went down around 12:20 a.m. Friday, Feb. 13, near Emerald Mountain, close to Steamboat Springs. The plane, identified as an Epic Aircraft E1000, had departed from Nashville before crashing in mountainous terrain. Routt County Search and Rescue responded around 12:40 a.m., assisting sheriff’s deputies and Steamboat Springs police in reaching the remote crash site.
Investigators say weather and terrain conditions in the area can be challenging, especially during nighttime hours. The aircraft came down under circumstances that remain unclear. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a full investigation to determine what caused the crash. Officials stated that the plane went down in mountainous terrain, and further details will be released once more information becomes available.
Aaron Stokes was widely known in the automotive world as the founder of Shop Fix Academy. A self-made entrepreneur, he owned five auto repair shops and spent more than two decades mentoring independent auto shop owners across the country. He also hosted a popular radio program called “Fixin’ Cars with Aaron Stokes,” where he shared business advice and technical knowledge with listeners.
Friends and colleagues described Stokes as passionate, driven, and generous with his time. His influence reached far beyond Tennessee, impacting automotive professionals nationwide. The sudden loss of his son, nephew, and close associate Austin Huskey has only deepened the heartbreak felt by those who knew them.
As the investigation continues, the Franklin community and the broader automotive industry are mourning four lives lost too soon. Family members, friends, and business associates are remembering the men not only for their professional achievements but also for the love and dedication they showed to those around them.
