Greg Biffle Dies in Statesville Plane Crash That Killed

On December 18, 2025, a Cessna Citation C550 business jet crashed shortly after takeoff while attempting to return and land at Statesville Regional Airport in Statesville, North Carolina, resulting in the deaths of all seven people on board.

The aircraft, registered to GB Aviation Leasing (a company managed by former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle), took off around 10:06 a.m. local time. Flight tracking data from FlightAware shows it traveled briefly before making a sharp turn back toward the airport, failing to climb above 2,000 feet. The plane crashed around 10:15-10:20 a.m. on the east end of the runway, erupting into a large fireball.

Victims

A joint statement from the families confirmed the deceased as:

• Greg Biffle (age 55), retired NASCAR Cup Series driver and champion in the Truck and Xfinity Series.
• His wife, Cristina Biffle (née Grossu).
• Their young son, Ryder Biffle (age 5).
• Greg’s daughter from a previous marriage, Emma Biffle (age 14; mother: ex-wife Nicole Lunders).
• Dennis Dutton and his son Jack Dutton.
• Longtime NASCAR community member Craig Wadsworth.

The families described Greg and Cristina as “devoted parents and active philanthropists” whose lives centered around their children. No survivors were reported, and identification was complicated by the intense post-crash fire.

Details of the Incident

• The plane was en route to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport in Florida, with planned onward flights possibly to the Bahamas.
• Witnesses, including golfers at nearby Lakewood Golf Club, reported the jet flying “way too low” before a massive explosion.
• Weather conditions included low clouds, light rain/drizzle, and reduced visibility (less than 3 miles reported shortly after), though it’s unclear if this was a direct factor.
• Statesville Regional Airport is an uncontrolled field (no tower) commonly used by NASCAR teams and corporate aviation.

YouTuber and racer Garrett Mitchell (known as Cleetus McFarland), a close friend of Biffle, confirmed the family was heading to visit him in Florida. The two had collaborated on relief efforts after Hurricane Helene, where Biffle flew numerous humanitarian missions.

Investigation

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the probe, with a go-team on site and a media briefing scheduled for December 19. The FAA is assisting. No cause has been determined; potential factors under review include weather, mechanical issues, or pilot error.

Tributes

• NASCAR called Biffle “a beloved member of the community, a fierce competitor, and a friend to so many,” highlighting his integrity and impact.
• North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein: “Heartbreaking news… Greg Biffle lived a life of courage and compassion and stepped up for western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene.”
• Rep. Richard Hudson: Praised the Biffles for hundreds of relief flights post-Helene, noting Greg’s legacy of service.

Greg Biffle, named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023, won 19 Cup Series races and was a Hall of Fame nominee. This tragedy has deeply affected the motorsports world.