How Ricky Nelson Saved His Twin Sons Before the Plane Accident That Took His Life

Investigators determined that the fire originated in the right-hand side of the aft cabin, near the floor.

The cabin heater was located in that general area.

Investigators also learned that the crew had experienced repeated difficulty operating the heater before smoke developed.

But an important distinction remains.

The investigation did not establish the precise ignition source or fuel source of the fire.

In other words, it would be misleading to state with certainty that investigators proved exactly what ignited the blaze.

What investigators could establish was where the fire originated and that there had been significant problems involving the cabin-heating system shortly beforehand.

The NTSB also found no evidence that the much-publicized allegation involving free-basing cocaine caused the fire.

That clarification matters because sensational rumors became attached to Nelson’s death almost immediately.

The official investigation tells a considerably more sober story.

The Detail That His Family Never Forgot

There is no official evidence establishing that Rick Nelson somehow knew his aircraft would crash.

Describing his decision as a proven supernatural “premonition” would therefore go beyond what the historical record supports.

What is documented is more powerful without embellishment.

Matthew and Gunnar Nelson were supposed to spend New Year’s Eve with their father.

They expected to join his travels.

At the last minute, Rick told them not to ride aboard his aircraft and instead instructed them to meet him in Dallas separately.

That decision kept both sons off N711Y.

Had the original plan remained unchanged, the Nelson family could have suffered an even greater tragedy.

It is impossible to know what Rick was thinking when he changed the arrangements.

But the result is undeniable.

His sons were not on the plane.