NASCAR Star Greg Biffle, Wife And Children Killed In Private Plane Crash

Retired NASCAR star Greg Biffle, his daughter Emma, son Ryder and wife Cristina were killed on Thursday morning when the private jet they were in crashed in Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina. Craig Wadsworth and Dennis and Jack Dutton were also onboard, a statement issued by the families of the victims said.

Biffle’s friend Garrett Mitchell, a YouTuber and racing driver who goes by the professional name Cleetus McFarland, first confirmed the deaths in a Facebook post that said Biffle was on his way to Florida to see him.

The cause of the crash has not yet been determined, but the Cessna C550’s flight path shows that it circled back to the airport shortly after takeoff.

Biffle won 19 NASCAR Cup Series races across 16 seasons and finished second in the 2005 season standings to Tony Stewart. He also won the Busch Series title in 2002 and the Truck Series title in 2000.

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Biffle held the Truck Series record for most wins in a season at nine until it was broken this year by series champion Corey Heim, who finished the season with 12 wins.

Biffle was both an airplane and helicopter pilot. He helped fly supplies to to the victims of Hurricane Helen in 2024 and was joined by fellow helicopter pilot Mitchell in the effort.

NASCAR issued the following statement on Biffle’s passing:

“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. His passion for racing, his integrity, and his commitment to fans and fellow competitors alike made a lasting impact on the sport.

“On the track, Greg’s talent and tenacity earned him championships in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, as well as numerous wins and accolades in the NASCAR Cup Series. Beyond his racing career, he gave of himself for the betterment of our community. Most notably, Greg spent countless hours of his time helping the citizens of North Carolina during the disasters that followed Hurricane Helene. His tireless work saved lives.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Greg’s entire family, friends, and all who were touched by his life.”