Former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife, and their two children were among seven people killed when a private jet crashed at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina on Thursday, the racing organization has confirmed.
The Cessna C550 aircraft, owned by a private company associated with Biffle, crashed while landing around 10:20 a.m. local time. The jet had taken off just minutes earlier and was engulfed in flames upon impact, officials said.
“Greg was more than a champion driver, he was a beloved member of the NASCAR community, a fierce competitor, and a friend to so many,” NASCAR said in a statement, confirming Biffle’s death alongside his wife, Cristina, daughter, Emma, and son, Ryder.
“His passion for racing, his integrity, and his commitment to fans and fellow competitors alike made a lasting impact on the sport.”
Tributes highlighted Biffle’s character both on and off the track. Following Hurricane Helene last year, he used his personal helicopter to rescue stranded residents and deliver supplies in western North Carolina.
“Beyond his success as a NASCAR driver, Greg Biffle lived a life of courage and compassion,” North Carolina Governor Josh Stein wrote on social media.
Motorsport YouTuber Garrett Mitchell revealed the family was en route to spend the afternoon with him. “We are devastated,” he wrote. “I’m so sorry to share this.”
The National Transportation Safety Board has deployed a team to investigate the cause of the crash. The airport will remain closed as crews clear debris from the runway. Officials did not release details about the other victims during their initial briefing.
By James Kisoo
