Former NASCAR Driver Greg Biffle Dies in Plane Crash at Statesville Airport, North Carolina

 A tragic plane crash at Statesville Regional Airport in rural North Carolina has claimed the lives of seven people, including former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and members of his family, according to NASCAR’s official social media channels.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein confirmed Thursday that Biffle was among those killed. NASCAR reported that his wife, Cristina, his daughter, Emma, and his son, Ryder, also died in the incident, along with three others identified as Dennis and Jack Dutton and Craig Wadsworth.

In a joint statement, the families said, “The loss of our loved ones is devastating, and our hearts are broken beyond words.”

Authorities at the airport noted that the names of the deceased could not yet be officially released due to post-crash fire damage, with formal identification still pending confirmation from the medical examiner.

The crash occurred around 10 a.m. local time. Initial reports confirmed multiple fatalities following what was described as an “aircraft incident.” Speculation about Biffle’s involvement emerged after it was discovered that the plane belonged to GB Aviation Leasing, a company registered at an address linked to Biffle in Mooresville, North Carolina.

Flight tracking data shows the plane departed Statesville Airport at 10:06 a.m., but quickly turned back toward the airport. The aircraft had been scheduled for a later flight from Sarasota, Florida, to the Bahamas.

Biffle, a licensed pilot, had used his flying skills to assist residents in remote areas affected by severe flooding caused by Hurricane Helene last year. Governor Stein highlighted Biffle’s contributions, saying, “Beyond his success on the track, Greg Biffle showed courage and compassion, stepping up to help western North Carolina after the hurricane.”

During his NASCAR career, Biffle, 55, won 19 Cup Series races. His strongest season was 2005, finishing second in the points standings behind Tony Stewart. He also ranked in the top 10 in six other seasons, including third in 2008 and fifth in 2012. Biffle was a nominee for the NASCAR Hall of Fame and recognized as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers.