KANSAS CITY, Mo. — On Thursday morning, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that multiple people, including semi-retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family, were killed in a plane crash at a North Carolina airport, leaving the racing community in shock.
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National outlets and local news stations near Iredell County, North Carolina, reported that on Thursday, at about 10:15 a.m. ET, a Cessna C550 crashed at Statesville Regional Airport.
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The plane, which was registered to Biffle, was bound for Sarasota, Florida, when it turned around just minutes after taking off. Flight tracking data shows the plane en route to the small airport when its route suddenly stops a short distance from the tarmac.
It was later reported that the plane had crashed, with video footage and photos showing it erupting into flames.
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On board the flight was 55-year-old Biffle, along with his wife, Cristina Grossu Biffle. The pair have two children: Emma Elizabeth, a 14-year-old daughter from Biffle’s previous marriage to Nicole Lunders, and 5-year-old son Ryder Jack.
Following their deaths, the Biffle family, along with the other families who suffered losses in the crash, issued a joint statement on social media.
The statement describes Greg and Cristina as “devoted parents” and “active philanthropists” whose lives centered around their children.
It says Emma was a “wonderful human being with a kind soul,” and Ryder was an “active, curious and infinitely joyful child.”
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Also on the plane were Dennis Dutton and his son, Jack, who were described as being “deeply loved,” in addition to Craig Wadsworth, who was said to be “beloved by many in the NASCAR community.”
“Each of them meant everything to us, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives,” the statement reads. “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.”
Who is Greg Biffle?
Although the NASCAR driver and his family do not have close ties to the metro, Biffle has graced the Kansas Speedway on many occasions, topping the leaderboards and showcasing his skills in the 2000s and 2010s.
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According to Kansas Speedway records, Biffle is a two-time winner, having placed first on Sept. 30, 2007, and Oct. 3, 2010.
Before that, he finished second in 2005, and placed third in 2004, 2008 and 2009. Biffle earned the pole position in a 2011 race.
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In addition to these local achievements, his accolades stretch far beyond the Kansas Speedway. These include:
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Rookie of the year: 1998 Craftsman Truck Series, 2001 Busch Series
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NASCAR Cup career: 510 starts, 19 wins, 92 top-five and 175 top-10 finishes. Also, 13 poles.
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NASCAR Xfinity Series career: 244 starts, 20 wins, 93 top-five and 149 top-10 finishes. Also, 14 poles and won the 2002 championship.
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NASCAR Camping World Truck Series career: 83 starts, 17 wins, 43 top-five and 55 top-10 finishes. Also, 12 poles and won the 2000 championship.
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Best NASCAR Cup season finish: 2005 (tied for second in the standings with teammate Carl Edwards, 35 points behind champion Tony Stewart) with 36 starts, 6 wins, 15 top-five, 21 top-10 finishes
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Best overall NASCAR season statistically: 1999 Truck Series (9 wins, 14 top-five and 19 top-10 finishes)
NASCAR shared a statement about the tragedy Thursday afternoon, highlighting Biffle’s achievements and philanthropic efforts throughout his life.
The motorsport organization said:
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“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.”
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Biffle retired in 2022, the same year he married Cristina — an East Coast real estate agent who is also the owner/CEO of a jewelry company known as “My Replica Ring.“
In the aftermath of the crash, a local legend and well-known name in the NASCAR community shared a post on social media discussing the loss of his former racing competitor.
Emporia, Kansas, native and retired NASCAR driver and commentator Clint Bowyer said on X that he was “absolutely crushed about the loss” of Biffle, whom he competed against for years, as well as his family.
“An unbelievable talent behind the controls of literally anything. Checked all the boxes…Great guy, helped people in need, and most importantly was a great family man. Devastated for everyone!” he added.
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Biffle, who was just five days away from celebrating his 56th birthday, not only held a reputation as a legendary NASCAR driver but also as a humanitarian who has stepped in to support people and places in crisis.
Back in 2024, Biffle made headlines after he extended relief to several communities across North Carolina that were impacted by the devastating flooding and landslides of Hurricane Helene.
The NASCAR driver, alongside YouTuber Cleetus McFarland, led their own helicopter missions throughout affected towns in North Carolina, dropping off supplies, formula, water, and taking people to safety.
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As a result of his humanitarian efforts, Biffle received the 2024 Myers Brothers Award from the National Motorsports Press Association.
A year later, in October 2025, Biffle took part in yet another relief mission following the catastrophic landfall of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.
The driver took to X, stating that he was trying to “coordinate and explore all opportunities via by sea and by air for relief efforts as quickly as we can to the Caribbean.”
He added that he had a large boat and a landing craft on standby to help get supplies to the island.
Now, in the wake of Thursday’s tragedy, many are left mourning and remembering the life of the philanthropist and NASCAR legend, as well as his family.
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