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Former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife, Cristina, son Ryder and daughter Emma were of the seven killed when his private jet crashed Thursday at Statesville Regional Airport.
A Cessna C550 business jet, owned by former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, crashed Thursday morning at Statesville Regional Airport, killing all seven people on board, including Biffle, his wife Cristina, and their two children, Ryder and Emma. The plane had taken off but was attempting to land on reapproach before the crash. Tracking data from FlightAware.com shows the plane was scheduled to fly from Sarasota, Florida, to the Bahamas, then back to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Statesville. The wreckage left a long trail of scorched earth across a golf course and a field before coming to rest near the runway. The Statesville Regional Airport is known for hosting corporate aviation facilities for Fortune 500 companies and several NASCAR teams. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and FAA are conducting an ongoing investigation, with a media briefing expected on Friday.
Inclement weather conditions, including fog and limited visibility of about 5 miles, were present at the Statesville Regional Airport at the time of the crash. Chopper 9 Skyzoom, dispatched to the scene, had to turn back due to these conditions. While fog was noted, it is not yet confirmed if weather contributed to the accident, as investigations into the current weather conditions are underway.
Witnesses from the nearby Lakewood Golf Club described seeing the business jet flying "way too low" before a "huge explosion." Scott Sain, working nearby, saw smoke and flames, noting the entire end of the runway was on fire. He recounted the plane's apparent last-ditch attempt to ascend before crashing. Golfer Joshua Green witnessed the plane nose-diving into the ground near Hole 9, describing it as "terrible to watch" and leaving him and his group "shaken up." Green called 911 but backed away from the wreckage due to fears of another explosion. Other witnesses, including Eric Jones and neighbor Brevin Renwick, described the massive flames and the sound that shook homes, expressing sadness for the families involved. Rodney Bass, another neighbor, reported hearing a loud swooshing sound as the plane clipped a pole and brushed treetops near his home, emphasizing the rarity of such a tragic event at the frequently used airport.
Beyond his racing career, Greg Biffle was recognized for his significant humanitarian work, particularly in helping victims of Hurricane Helene in 2024. Bradley Boone, assistant chief at the Pensacola Fire Department in Yancey County, highlighted Biffle's efforts, stating he flew multiple days into hard-hit areas like Cattail, performing rescues and bringing out stranded individuals. Boone described Biffle as "down to earth and easy going," and a "huge help to a community that really, really needed it." Biffle's home served as a base for private aircraft to transport life-saving supplies to the mountains, offering not just aid but also hope to those affected. The Pensacola community is deeply saddened by his loss, with many sharing their heartbreak on social media.
The NASCAR community expressed profound devastation following the confirmation of Greg Biffle and his family's deaths. NASCAR released a statement acknowledging Biffle as more than a champion driver, but a "beloved member," "fierce competitor," and "friend." They praised his lasting impact on the sport, highlighting his championships in the Xfinity Series and Craftsman Truck Series, and numerous Cup Series wins. NASCAR also underscored his post-racing humanitarian efforts, particularly his tireless work saving lives during Hurricane Helene. Jeff Gordon shared his devastation, respecting Biffle as a driver and humanitarian. Charlotte Motor Speedway echoed these sentiments, calling him a "consummate competitor" and "true humanitarian." Winston Kelley, Executive Director of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, offered sincere condolences to all affected families, noting Biffle's extensive accomplishments, including being named one of NASCARâs 75 greatest drivers, and his philanthropic work. Tony Stewart Racing also mourned the loss, recognizing Biffle as a dedicated racer and humanitarian. A joint statement from the Biffle, Grossu, Dutton, and Lunders families expressed their heartbreak, describing Greg and Cristina as devoted parents, and Ryder and Emma as joyful and kind individuals. They also remembered Dennis and Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth, emphasizing the immeasurable void left by their absence and requesting privacy during this grieving period.