Seven Dead, Including NASCAR Driver Greg Biffle and His Family, After Tragic North Carolina Plane Crash What We Know So Far

A devastating plane crash in North Carolina has claimed seven lives, including retired NASCAR champion Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, and their two children, Emma (14) and Ryder (5). The tragedy occurred on Thursday, December 18, 2025, moments after the aircraft took off from Statesville Regional Airport.

Authorities confirmed the victims’ identities on Friday following an intense rescue response and the launch of a federal investigation. The crash has shaken the motorsports community and left friends, family, and fans in mourning.

Jet Crashes Moments After Takeoff

According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the Cessna C550 jet crashed shortly after departing from the airport, located about 45 miles north of Charlotte. Weather conditions at the time included drizzle, limited visibility, and low cloud cover.

Officials said the aircraft attempted to return to the runway but struck a nearby field and erupted into flames. All seven people on board were killed instantly.

The victims included:

• Greg Biffle (55)

• Cristina Grossu Biffle

• Emma Biffle (14)

• Ryder Biffle (5)

• Dennis Dutton

• Jack Dutton

• Craig Wadsworth

FAA records show that the plane was registered to a company operated by Biffle. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether he was piloting the aircraft.

Video Captures Jet’s Final Seconds

A nearby security camera recorded the jet’s descent and explosion, providing investigators with crucial information. The footage shows the plane dropping into a field, hitting the ground at high speed, and bursting into a massive fireball seconds later.

The video matches witness accounts describing a low-flying aircraft, a violent impact, and rapidly spreading flames.

 

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Witnesses Describe the Horror

Residents near the airport reported hearing a loud engine roar followed by an explosion.

Golfers at Lakewood Golf Club, located next to the airport, saw the aircraft flying unusually low.
“We were like, ‘Oh my gosh! That’s way too low,’” one witness said.

Another resident described feeling the heat from the explosion from his porch.
“I looked over and saw it… when it exploded, I could feel the heat from here.”

The crash startled local neighborhoods accustomed to regular plane traffic from NASCAR teams returning after races.

Aviation Expert Suggests Possible Engine Trouble

Early flight data suggests the plane may have experienced engine trouble shortly after takeoff.
Former NTSB investigator Greg Feith told NBC that the jet appeared to be attempting a return-to-field maneuver.

He explained that while pilots can land safely with one engine, a severe failure—combined with weather conditions—can lead to loss of control.

Investigators will review:

• The aircraft’s maintenance history

• Cockpit communication

• Crew actions

• Weather conditions

• Flight data recorders

A preliminary report is expected within several weeks.

I’m devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Greg Biffle, his wife, Christina, and their two young children.

Greg was a hero on and off the track, stepping up when Western NC needed help after Hurricane Helene.

Please join me in praying for their family and friends. pic.twitter.com/Ak01Bd74oN

— Congressman Tim Moore (@RepTimMooreNC) December 18, 2025

Tributes Pour In for Greg Biffle and Family

As news of the crash spread, tributes began flooding social media from colleagues and friends across the racing world.

Close friend Garrett Mitchell (known as Cleetus McFarland) revealed that the Biffle family had been flying to visit him at the time of the crash.
“We are devastated,” he wrote.

North Carolina Congressman Tim Moore praised Biffle’s character both on and off the track, noting his contributions to hurricane relief efforts.

NASCAR released an emotional statement honoring Biffle as:

• A multi-series champion

• A respected competitor

• A dedicated father and husband

• A valued member of the NASCAR community

Between 2003 and 2016, Biffle earned 19 career Cup Series victories, becoming one of only three drivers to win championships in both the Busch Series and the Craftsman Truck Series.

NASCAR Statement:

“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…

— NASCAR Communications (@NASCAR_Comms) December 18, 2025

Another Aviation Tragedy Shakes the Public

Just weeks before the North Carolina crash, another aviation accident claimed the life of South African TV host Mynie Steffens during a crop-spraying helicopter operation.
Authorities in her case also launched a formal investigation.

These back-to-back tragedies have renewed calls for enhanced safety oversight in both private jet aviation and agricultural flight operations.

 

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Investigation Continues

Federal and state investigators are working to determine the exact cause of the Statesville crash. The NTSB, FAA, and local authorities are jointly handling the case.

As the community grieves the loss of seven lives, officials urge patience while they gather and analyze critical evidence.

More updates will be released as the investigation progresses.