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Brentwood Today
By the People, for the People
Tennessee CEO, Businessman and 2 Family Members Killed in Colorado Plane Crash
Private jet crashed near popular ski resort, killing all 4 on board
Published on Feb. 15, 2026
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A third-generation Tennessee CEO, a prominent businessman, and two of their family members were identified as the victims killed when a private jet crashed in the Colorado mountains early Friday morning. The plane, registered to ALS Aviation LLC, crashed near the ski resort community of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, shortly after taking off from Kansas City.
Why it matters
The tragic crash has deeply impacted the victims' families, businesses, and communities. It raises questions about private aviation safety and the risks associated with small private planes, especially in mountainous terrain. The victims were well-known leaders in their respective industries, making their deaths particularly notable.
The details
The victims were identified as Austin Huskey, the 38-year-old third-generation CEO of Huskey Building Supply in Franklin, Tennessee; Aaron Stokes, a 47-year-old Tennessee businessman and founder of the Shop Fix Academy consulting firm; Stokes' 21-year-old son Jakson; and Stokes' 21-year-old nephew Colin. The private Epic E1000 turboprop plane crashed at an elevation of around 8,000 feet on Emerald Mountain near Steamboat Springs. The FAA and NTSB are investigating the cause of the crash, which occurred shortly after the plane took off from Kansas City.
- The plane crashed around 12:20 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026.
- The plane had taken off from Kansas City Downtown Airport just after 10 p.m. the previous evening, headed for Bob Adams Airport in Steamboat Springs.
The players
Austin Huskey
The 38-year-old third-generation CEO of Huskey Building Supply in Franklin, Tennessee.
Aaron Stokes
A 47-year-old Tennessee businessman and founder of the Shop Fix Academy consulting firm.
Jakson Stokes
The 21-year-old son of Aaron Stokes.
Colin Stokes
The 21-year-old nephew of Aaron Stokes.
ALS Aviation LLC
The company that registered the private Epic E1000 turboprop plane involved in the crash.
What they’re saying
“With heavy hearts, we grieve the unexpected passing of our CEO, Austin Huskey. Austin was a fearless leader, a gracious man, a devoted father and husband, and a faithful follower of Christ.”
— Huskey Building Supply (Instagram)
“The loss has deeply impacted his family, the Shop Fix Academy team, and the broader automotive community.”
— Shop Fix Academy (Facebook)
“Aaron built this company to outlast him. He had a comprehensive continuity plan in place, which allows our team to remain fully operational. Our commitment to serving shop owners and helping them grow remains unwavering.”
— Michael Rosenberger, CEO, Shop Fix Academy (Facebook)
What’s next
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the cause of the crash.
The takeaway
This tragic incident underscores the risks associated with private aviation, especially in challenging terrain, and the profound impact the loss of respected business leaders can have on their companies, families, and communities.
