Former NASCAR Driver Greg Biffle Died On Thursday
Retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, five-year-old son Ryder, and 14-year-old daughter Emma were among the seven people killed in a plane crash at an airport in Statesville, North Carolina on Thursday (Dec. 18).
Other passengers included Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth.
The aircraft departed Statesville around 10am local time, and crashed shortly when it attempted to return and land.
Tim Kenny, an aviation journalist and licensed commercial pilot, spoke with WBTV after examining the flight data and revealed the plane “never got higher than about 1,000 feet above the ground before turning around and initializing what appeared to be a standard approach back to the airport.”
Initial reports only indicated that the plane belonged to Biffle. Apparently he rents out his plane, so there was a chance he wouldn’t be on it. As time went on, more information came to light and a friend, Garrett Mitchell, who is Internet Personality Cleetus McFarland, confirmed that Biffle and his family were on board. He knew this because they were coming to spend the afternoon with him.
A statement from the families involved released a statement, confirming the deaths of their loved ones.
RELATED: Greg Biffle’s Wife Sent Chilling 3-Word Text To Her Mom Moments Before Tragic Plane Crash
Biffle was a giant in the NASCAR world, winning more the 50 races in various circuits throughout his career. His storied career earned him a nomination for the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2025.
Although he was a force on the race track, he has become well known for his humanitarian efforts, especially during Hurricane Helene. He used his plane and pilot skills to provide aid to his home state following the horrific natural disaster.
“The Biffles flew hundreds of rescue missions in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene,” U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson, the Republican in the NC 9th District, said in a statement. “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.”
The NASCAR Community Has Been Affected Greatly
Throughout his career, Biffle formed so many great friendships with his fellow drivers, so you can imagine that they were all affected by the new of his passing.
See some of their reactions below.
NASCAR
“The NASCAR family is devastated at the loss of Greg Biffle, who was one of our 75 greatest drivers and became known for his relentless post-career humanitarian work. We extend our deepest condolences.”
They also shared a compilation of footage from Biffle’s career.
Kyle Busch
“Such a tragic and heartbreaking day. Greg and Cristina were truly special friends to us, we loved them as well as Emma and Ryder dearly. Greg’s compassion and humanitarian spirit—especially in times of crisis—touched so many lives and inspired everyone who knew him. The memories we shared, both on and off the racetrack, will stay in our hearts forever. They meant so much to us, and they will never be forgotten.”
Swipe through Kyle’s post to see all the photos he shared.
Samantha Busch
Jimmie Johnson
“The loss of Greg Biffle and his beautiful family is unspeakable. Greg was one of the most spirited competitors I’ve raced against and he was certainly a friend. My heart is hurting for his loved ones, family, friends, and fans.”
Richard Petty
“Richard Petty and the Petty Family are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle and his family. Greg was not only a fearless competitor, but someone who showed that same fearlessness in his generosity to others. Our deepest condolences to their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
Jeff Gordon
“Devastating news. I had such tremendous respect for Greg as a driver, and we shared countless tough battles on the track. Like so many others, I was inspired by his tireless relief work during Hurricane Helene. My heart goes out to the Biffle family and everyone hurting.”
Denny Hamlin
Tony Stewart Racing
Clint Bowyer
Kyle Petty
Kenny Wallace
Conor Daly
Bristol Motor Speedway
Hendrick Motorsports
Our thoughts and prayers remain with all who knew the seven people on board the plane.