Deadly Statesville Plane Crash Kills Seven, Including NASCAR Legend Greg Biffle and Family

Statesville, North Carolina that killed seven people including retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and members of his family

Tragic Crash Kills Seven Including Greg Biffle and Family

A private business jet crashed on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina, killing all seven people on board. Among the victims were retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina Grossu Biffle, and their two children — 14-year-old daughter Emma and 5-year-old son Ryder. Also killed were Dennis Dutton, his son Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth, a friend associated with the NASCAR community. 

The jet, a Cessna 550 business aircraft, had taken off shortly after 10 a.m. local time but turned back and crashed while attempting to return to the airport. The aircraft erupted into a large fire on impact. Federal investigators from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading the investigation into the cause of the crash.

Biffle’s Legacy and Impact

Greg Biffle, 55, was one of NASCAR’s most respected drivers. Over his career, he achieved more than 50 victories across NASCAR’s national series, including 19 in the Cup Series, and became the first driver to win championships in both the Truck Series (2000) and the Xfinity Series (2002). In retirement, he remained active in motorsport circles and was widely admired for his humanitarian work, including efforts to deliver aid after Hurricane Helene. 

His death — along with his young children and others — has sent shockwaves through the racing world and beyond. Tributes have poured in from fans, fellow drivers, teams, and public figures, honoring both his competitive achievements and his generous spirit. 

Community and Official Response

NASCAR released statements expressing deep sorrow and offering condolences to the families. Lawmakers and community leaders also shared their grief and reflected on the Biffle family’s contributions both on and off the track. 

Investigation Underway

Officials have not yet released a definitive cause for the crash, and the NTSB continues to investigate. Weather conditions at the time included cloudiness and light drizzle, but it is too soon to know what role, if any, they played in the accident.