The town of Franklin is grieving after four well-known and deeply respected community members were killed in a private plane crash in northwestern Colorado, a tragedy that has sent shockwaves across multiple states.
Authorities identified the victims as Aaron Stokes, believed to be 47; Jakson Stokes, 21; Colin Stokes, 21; and Austin Huskey, 38. According to Routt County Coroner Mitch Locke, the ages are still being formally confirmed.
Crash Details Under Investigation
A preliminary report from the Federal Aviation Administration stated that the aircraft, an Epic Aircraft E1000, went down near Emerald Mountain outside Steamboat Springs at approximately 12:20 a.m. on February 13. The crash occurred in rugged mountainous terrain roughly three hours northwest of Denver.
The National Transportation Safety Board has opened a full investigation. Officials have not yet released information regarding weather conditions, flight plans, or possible contributing factors.
Leaders, Family Members, and Friends Remembered
Among the victims was Aaron Stokes, a prominent Franklin entrepreneur whose work reached well beyond Tennessee. He founded Shop Fix Academy, a national coaching and training organization for auto repair shop owners, and owned multiple automotive repair businesses. Stokes was also the host of Fixin’ Cars with Aaron Stokes on local radio station 99.7 WTN, where he shared industry insight and practical advice with listeners.
Friends and colleagues described Aaron as a visionary mentor and devoted family man. Coroner Locke confirmed that Jakson Stokes was his son and Colin Stokes his nephew, compounding the heartbreak for the Stokes family and their loved ones.
Jakson and Colin, both 21, were remembered as driven young men with promising futures. Friends and family spoke of their strong character, close family ties, and deep roots in the Franklin community.
Also killed was Austin Huskey, CEO of Huskey Building Supply, a third-generation family business with a longstanding reputation in the region. In a public statement, the company described Huskey as a fearless and compassionate leader who upheld a legacy of integrity, generosity, and growth.
Outpouring of Tributes
In the days since the crash, tributes have flooded social media from across Tennessee and beyond. Friends, business leaders, and community members have shared stories highlighting mentorship, generosity, and the profound personal impact each of the four men had on others’ lives.
Churches, business networks, and local organizations in Franklin have come together in prayer and remembrance, reflecting on the void left by the sudden loss—at family gatherings, in workplaces, and throughout daily community life.
As federal investigators continue their work, memorial service details have not yet been announced. For now, Franklin stands united in grief, honoring the lives of Aaron Stokes, Jakson Stokes, Colin Stokes, and Austin Huskey, and offering support to the families facing an unimaginable loss.