Automotive entrepreneur and radio show host Aaron Stokes and at least one son are among the four victims identified as dying in a single-plane crash near Steamboat Springs, Colorado, early Friday morning. Image courtesy of UPI
Feb. 14 (UPI) — The Routt County, Colorado, Coroner’s Office has identified the four victims who died in a plane crash while approaching a Steamboat Springs airport early Friday morning.
The victims are Aaron Stokes, 47, Jackson Stokes, 21, Colin Stokes, 21, and Austin Huskey, 37, the Steamboat Pilot reported.
Aaron Stokes is the father of Jackson Stokes, but it is unclear if he also is the father of Colin Stokes.
Aaron Stokes was a resident of Franklin, Tenn., which is where the flight originated on Thursday before making a brief stop in Kansas City and then proceeding to Steamboat Springs.
Franklin is located about 20 miles south of Nashville and is home to many country music stars and other celebrities.
Aaron Stokes was the founder of Shop Fix Academy, which assisted the owners of independent auto shops, according to his Ever Loved obituary.
“The Franklin, Tennessee, community and the global automotive industry are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Aaron Stokes, a visionary entrepreneur, mentor and beloved family man,” the obituary says.
“A self-made multi-millionaire with 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, Aaron’s influence extended significantly within the industry,” it continues. “He successfully owned and operated five auto repair shops and hosted the popular radio show Fixin’ Cars with Aaron Stokes.”
The obituary describes him as a “cherished member of the Franklin community. Known for his vibrant personality, kindness, and adventurous spirit, he embraced life with enthusiasm.
“He was a devoted husband and father, and his family has requested privacy during this difficult time. Friends remember him for his deep faith and unwavering integrity.”
The plane crashed at 12:20 a.m. MST near the summit of Emerald Mountain, which is located southeast of Steamboat Springs and the Yampa River.
The remote crash site required a local rescue team to recover the victims’ bodies.
ALS Aviation LLC of Franklin is the registered owner of the single-engine, turboprop Epic Aircraft E1000 that crashed and caused the deaths of all four aboard it.
Initial reports do not say which of the four deceased passengers was piloting the aircraft or if ALS might have been owned by Aaron Stokes.
The company was formed in 2021 and dissolved in 2024, but its ownership certificate is valid through 2031.
The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash and its cause.
