Greg Biffle, a NASCAR Hall of Famer, his wife, and his children were killed in a plane crash in North Carolina on Thursday, according to NASCAR and sources close to Biffle’s family.
The racing company released the following statement late Thursday afternoon:
“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.
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."
Rep. Richard Hudson (R-N.C.) also confirmed the deaths on social media.
“I am devastated by the loss of Greg, Cristina, and their children, and my heart is with all who loved them. 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. 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.”
Rep. Richard Hudson, R-N.C.
The Federal Aviation Administration said a Cessna C550 crashed while landing at Statesville Regional Airport around 10:20 a.m. Thursday. The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA are investigating the crash, which occurred in Statesville, about 45 miles north of Charlotte.
The plane was supposed to land in Florida at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport around 11:14 a.m., according to a flight plan that was filed.
Biffle quickly made a name for himself in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, winning the 1998 Rookie of Year award and the 2000 series championship, according to the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
Similar success came in the NASCAR Xfinity Series – a 2001 Rookie of the Year award followed by the 2002 championship.
Biffle earned 19 wins in 515 starts in the Cup Series, finishing in the top 10 in the standings six times, including a runner-up finish in 2005.
In his career at the Daytona 500, Biffle had 13 starts, with two top-five finishes. He won the Pepsi 400 at Daytona in 2003.
Biffle was named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers.