NASCAR Icon Greg Biffle and Family Perish in Tragic Aviation Accident Near Statesville

Statesville, NC – NASCAR legend Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina Grossu Biffle, their son Ryder, and his daughter Emma were among seven individuals confirmed deceased in a catastrophic aircraft crash Thursday morning at Statesville Regional Airport, located north of Charlotte, North Carolina. The incident, which occurred shortly after takeoff, has sent shockwaves through the motorsports community and beyond.

First Sergeant Chris Knox of the North Carolina Highway Patrol, who was among the first responders, described the scene as one of the most devastating crashes he had ever witnessed. "We can tell you at this point that seven confirmed occupants on the aircraft are deceased," Sergeant Knox stated. While official confirmation initially identified Greg Biffle as one of the deceased, subsequent statements from authorities and close associates confirmed the tragic loss of his immediate family.

The news was first shared publicly by Garrett Mitchell, a prominent YouTuber known as Cleetus McFarland, who had a close personal and professional relationship with Biffle. Mitchell posted on social media that the Biffle family was en route to spend the afternoon with him and his team at the time of the crash. "Unfortunately, I can confirm Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder were on that plane… because they were on their way to spend the afternoon with us. We are devastated. I’m so sorry to share this," Mitchell wrote, expressing profound grief. Biffle and Mitchell had reportedly forged a strong bond over the past five years, collaborating on natural disaster relief efforts and supporting Mitchell’s burgeoning aspirations in NASCAR, which included sporadic starts in the ARCA Menards Series at iconic tracks like Daytona, Talladega, and Bristol.

A joint statement released by the Biffle, Grossu, Dutton, and Lunders families offered a poignant tribute to the victims: "We are devastated by the loss of our loved ones. This tragedy has left all our families heartbroken beyond words. Greg and Cristina were devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives were centered around their young son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma (mother – Nicole Lunders). Emma was a wonderful human being with a kind soul who was loved by many people. Ryder was an active, curious and infinitely joyful child. Dennis Dutton and his son Jack were deeply loved as well, and their loss is felt by all who knew them. Craig Wadsworth was beloved by many in the NASCAR community and will be missed by those who knew him. Each of them meant everything to us, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives. We ask for privacy, compassion and understanding as we grieve and begin to process this unimaginable loss. We are grateful for the kindness and support that has been extended to our families during this incredibly difficult time. At this moment, our focus is on honoring their lives and supporting one another."

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NASCAR itself issued a somber statement acknowledging the profound loss. "NASCAR is devastated by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, Craig Wadsworth and Dennis and Jack Dutton in a fatal plane crash," the statement read. "Greg was more than a champion driver, he was a beloved member of the NASCAR community, a fierce competitor, and a friend to so many. His passion for racing, his integrity, and his commitment to fans and fellow competitors alike made a lasting impact on the sport. On the track, Greg’s talent and tenacity earned him championships in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, as well as numerous wins and accolades in the NASCAR Cup Series. Beyond his racing career, he gave of himself for the betterment of our community. Most notably, Greg spent countless hours of his time helping the citizens of North Carolina during the disasters that followed Hurricane Helene. His tireless work saved lives. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Greg’s entire family, friends, and all who were touched by his life."

Greg Biffle, a decorated figure in NASCAR, spent the entirety of his full-time career with Roush Racing, now known as RFK Racing. The team, co-owned by NASCAR Hall of Famer Jack Roush and Brad Keselowski, also released a statement mourning the loss of their former driver and colleague.

The fatal incident occurred at approximately 10:15 a.m. EST at Statesville Regional Airport, a facility frequently utilized by various entities within the motorsports industry. Preliminary data from flight tracking services indicates the Cessna C550 jet, registered under Biffle’s GB Aviation Leasing, LLC, departed Statesville at roughly 10:06 a.m. The aircraft reportedly reached an altitude of 4,300 feet by 10:08 a.m. before initiating a descent approximately one mile from its departure point. By 10:11 a.m., the jet had turned back towards the airport, attempting an emergency return. The final recorded data point at 10:15 a.m. placed the aircraft less than half a mile from the runway, at an altitude of around 800 feet and a speed of approximately 109 mph, before it crashed at the east end of the runway.

The Iredell County Sheriff’s Office was the primary agency overseeing the immediate aftermath of the crash. They were later joined by investigators from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the North Carolina State Patrol. During a press conference held shortly after noon, airport manager John Ferguson provided limited details. "Like we said, at approximately 10:15 a.m., we got a report of a jet that crashed off the end of the runway on the east end. By time I came out, it was fully engulfed," Ferguson stated. "We’ve had multiple agencies that have come. The FAA arrived at about 12 o’clock today. They are taking over the scene and the investigation. We have no information on the cause. The airport is closed until further notice. It will take time to get the debris off the runway."

Meteorological conditions at the time of the crash are being closely examined as a potential factor. Dan DePodwin, AccuWeather Vice President of Forecasting Operations, noted that adverse weather was reported in the vicinity of Statesville Regional Airport. "Heavy drizzle and a cloud ceiling near 1,200 feet were reported at 10:15 a.m. The cloud ceiling had reportedly lowered to around 400 feet, with heavy rain reducing visibility to less than 2 miles at 10:30 a.m. Weather conditions are often a critical factor that investigators carefully review after a plane crash. It may take months to a year or longer for investigators to determine if the weather conditions contributed to the crash," DePodwin commented.

Greg Biffle’s distinguished career in NASCAR saw him achieve significant success across multiple series. He clinched the 2002 NASCAR Busch Series (now Xfinity Series) championship and the 2000 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship. In the premier NASCAR Cup Series, he accumulated 19 wins. His impressive track record and contributions to the sport were recognized in 2023 when he was named as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers.

In his post-racing career, Biffle dedicated considerable effort to philanthropic endeavors. He was a passionate advocate for animal welfare through his Greg Biffle Foundation and played a crucial role in disaster relief efforts following Hurricane Helene in 2024. As a licensed pilot, Biffle utilized his helicopter to deliver vital supplies to residents in Western North Carolina affected by the devastating storm. His commitment to community service and his willingness to help those in need underscored a legacy that extended far beyond the racetrack.

The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, with aviation authorities meticulously analyzing all available data and evidence. The loss of Greg Biffle and his family, alongside Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth, marks a profound tragedy that will be deeply felt by many in the coming days, weeks, and months.

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