Former NASCAR Driver Greg Biffle and Family Die in North Carolina Plane Crash

A tragic plane crash in western North Carolina has claimed the lives of former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his immediate family, and several others, sending shockwaves through the motorsports community.

The crash occurred on Thursday, Dec. 18, at approximately 10:15 a.m. local time, when a Cessna C550 business jet went down while attempting to land at Statesville Regional Airport in Iredell County, roughly 40 miles north of Charlotte. According to airport officials and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), seven people were on board the aircraft.

Victims Identified by Families

Family members later confirmed that those killed included Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, their 5-year-old son Ryder, and Biffle’s 14-year-old daughter Emma. Also among the victims were Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth.

In a joint statement shared publicly, loved ones said the loss has left their families “heartbroken beyond words.”

Due to the intensity of the post-crash fire, officials noted that formal identification is still pending confirmation by the medical examiner’s office.

Plane Attempted Return Amid Severe Weather

Flight tracking data shows the jet had been en route to Florida but attempted to return to Statesville shortly after takeoff as severe weather conditions moved through the area. The aircraft was registered to a company connected to Biffle, according to reports.

Local authorities described the incident as an active and evolving investigation, involving multiple agencies. The plane reportedly overshot the runway and erupted into flames, prompting an immediate emergency response.

Weather Conditions Under Review

Weather experts confirmed that conditions around the airport were deteriorating at the time of the crash. Reports indicated heavy drizzle, low cloud ceilings, and reduced visibility, with worsening rain shortly after the incident.

Aviation officials emphasized that weather is often a critical factor reviewed during aircraft crash investigations, though determining a cause can take months or longer.

FAA and NTSB Leading Investigation

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, with support from the FAA. A specialized NTSB response team is expected to conduct an on-site examination and provide a public briefing.

The airport was closed for several hours following the crash as crews worked to secure the scene and clear debris from the runway.

NASCAR Community Mourns a Respected Champion

Biffle’s death has deeply impacted the NASCAR world. Known for both his competitive drive and personal generosity, he was widely respected by fellow drivers and fans alike.

A veteran of the NASCAR Cup Series, Biffle competed full-time from 2003 to 2016, earning 19 career wins, 92 top-five finishes, and 175 top-10s. His first Cup Series victory came at Daytona International Speedway in 2003.

In 2023, NASCAR honored him as one of its 75 greatest drivers, and he received the 2024 Myers Brothers Award for his contributions to the sport and community. He was also a nominee for the NASCAR Hall of Fame and had continued racing part-time in the ARCA Menards Series earlier this year.

Four-time NASCAR champion Jeff Gordon described the news as “devastating,” praising Biffle’s talent, character, and dedication to helping others.

A Life and Legacy Remembered

Greg Biffle was set to turn 56 years old next week. Born in Vancouver, Washington, he rose from regional short tracks to become one of NASCAR’s most accomplished drivers.

As investigations continue, tributes continue to pour in for a racer remembered not only for his success on the track, but for his kindness and impact off it.