A devastating plane crash at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina claimed the lives of former NASCAR champion Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, their two children, and three others on board. The small jet went down Thursday morning, ending what was supposed to be a family trip to the Bahamas.
Rep. Richard Hudson confirmed the heartbreaking news in a post shared online, writing, “I am devastated by the loss of Greg, Cristina, and their children, and my heart is with all who loved them.”
Investigators say the aircraft was a Cessna C550 bearing tail number N257BW, owned by GB Aviation Leasing LLC, a company tied to Biffle through federal aviation records.
A Flight That Never Reached Its Destination
According to officials, the jet had departed Statesville and was scheduled to fly to Sarasota, Florida, before continuing on to the Bahamas. It crashed shortly after takeoff around 10:20 a.m., sparking a massive fire that could be seen from nearby roadways.
In an initial press conference, Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell said he could “confirm there were fatalities”, although details were held back until families were notified. Later, the sheriff’s office confirmed there were seven victims.
NASCAR followed with its own statement, confirming that Biffle, his family, and three additional passengers were among the deceased.
NASCAR Mourns a Champion and Humanitarian
In a statement reflecting the magnitude of the loss, NASCAR said, “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 organization continued, “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.”
The tribute also highlighted his extraordinary service off the track. “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.”
Families Release a Heartbreaking Joint Statement
As the community reeled from the tragedy, the families of the victims issued their own emotional message. It read, “We are devastated by the loss of our loved ones. This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words.”
They continued, “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.”
Witnesses Describe a Terrifying Sight
The fiery accident left a trail of wreckage across the airport grounds, and witnesses nearby were stunned. Golfers at Lakewood Golf Club said they ducked as the plane passed overhead moments before impact.
Joshua Green told The Associated Press, “We were like, ‘Oh my gosh! That’s way too low.’”
He described the moment as “scary,” recalling debris strewn around the ninth hole.
Video from the scene showed first responders rushing toward thick black smoke rising from the runway.
Greg Biffle’s Legacy of Racing and Rescue
Biffle, 55, was known not only for his success in NASCAR but also for his commitment to disaster relief. He earned 19 NASCAR Cup Series wins, including six in 2005, and secured championships in both the Xfinity and Truck Series earlier in his career.
Beyond racing, he became a local hero last year when he used his personal helicopter to deliver supplies to storm-stricken communities after Hurricane Helene. His firsthand account of that effort resurfaced Thursday, reminding many of his character.
At the time, he wrote, “Only way we were able to find someone stranded in the mountains at bottom of steep canyon. 6 attempts to land due to difficulty but we got there – got him a chainsaw, EpiPens, insulin, chicken food, formula, gas, 2 stroke oil, and sandwiches premade from Harris Teeter before we left.”
Rep. Hudson reflected on that same spirit in his tribute, noting, “They were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others. Greg was a great NASCAR champion who thrilled millions of fans. But he was an extraordinary person as well, and will be remembered for his service to others as much as for his fearlessness on the track.”
He added, “The Biffles flew hundreds of rescue missions in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene.”
“The last time I spoke with Cristina, just a couple of weeks ago, she reached out to ask how she could help with relief efforts in Jamaica. That’s who the Biffles were. Our prayers are with their family, friends, and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss.”
Federal Investigation Underway
The FAA confirmed the timeline of the crash, noting the C550 went down just after 10 a.m. Federal investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board are now leading a full review of the wreckage, flight path, and mechanical records to determine what caused the deadly accident.
Statesville Regional Airport, which serves major corporations and several NASCAR teams, temporarily halted operations while crews secured the scene.
