Tragic Plane Crash Claims Lives of NASCAR Star Greg Biffle and Family

Sat Dec 20 2025 09:04:16 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A private jet crash in North Carolina results in the deaths of seven people, including renowned NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and three family members. Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident as community mourns the loss.

On Thursday, a Cessna C550 jet crashed shortly after takeoff from Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina, killing seven people, including NASCAR champion Greg Biffle and his family. Investigators have yet to determine the cause of the crash, which occurred amidst drizzly weather conditions. The community remembers the victims for their contributions to NASCAR and their deep familial bonds.

A private jet crashed at a regional North Carolina airport and erupted into flames on Thursday, resulting in the loss of seven lives, including the well-known NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and three of his family members.

The Cessna C550 jet took off from Statesville Regional Airport, located approximately 45 miles north of Charlotte, but tragically crashed while attempting to return shortly after takeoff, according to tracking data from FlightAware.com.

First responders arrived at the scene amidst scenes of devastation, as confirmed by video footage from WSOC-TV showing flames and wreckage scattered on the runway. AccuWeather reported that there were light drizzles and clouds at the time of the incident.

A statement from the families of the victims revealed that the passengers included Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, their son Ryder, and Biffle’s daughter, Emma. The other individuals on board were identified as Craig Wadsworth, Dennis Dutton, and Dutton's son, Jack, all cherished members of the NASCAR community.

Wadsworth, a fixture behind the scenes in NASCAR, shared a close bond with Biffle, having supported him in various capacities, including providing aid during Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. The families expressed their grief, articulating that each person aboard meant everything to us, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives.

Greg Biffle, aged 55, had a notable career with over 50 race wins across multiple NASCAR circuits and held championships in both the Truck and Xfinity Series. He spent most of his racing career with Roush Fenway Racing.

The aircraft involved was a Cessna C550, which is recognized for its reliability and safety, registered under a company owned by Biffle. The jet was reportedly scheduled to travel to Sarasota, Florida, followed by a trip to Treasure Cay airport in the Bahamas before returning. Aviation expert Jeff Guzzetti elaborated that the plane, constructed in 1981, would have an estimated value of $1 million to $10 million based on its features and configurations. Typically, the Cessna C550 accommodates six to eight passengers.

Biffle's passing adds him to a sorrowful list of athletes who have experienced tragic deaths due to aviation accidents.