Retired NASCAR champion Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina Grossu Biffle and their two children were among seven people killed in a plane crash in North Carolina on Thursday morning.
Rep. Richard Hudson, a friend of the family, confirmed the news on X: “I am devastated by the loss of Greg, Cristina, and their children, and my heart is with all who loved them. They were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others. Greg was a great NASCAR champion who thrilled millions of fans. But he was an extraordinary person as well, and will be remembered for his service to others as much as for his fearlessness on the track. The Biffles flew hundreds of rescue missions in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene. 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. Our prayers are with their family, friends, and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss.”
Biffle’s friend Garrett Mitchell also confirmed on Facebook that the family was en route to Florida, writing: “Unfortunately, I can confirm Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder were on that plane. Because they were on their way to spend the afternoon with us. We are devastated. I’m so sorry to share this.”
The identities of all those who were killed in plane crash were later disclosed in a joint statement released by the Biffle, Grossu, Dutton and Lunders families, as shared by Fox Sports motorsports reporter Bob Pockrass on X: “We are devastated by the loss of our loved ones. This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words. Greg and Cristina were devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives were centered around their young son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma (mother – Nicole Lunders). Emma was a wonderful human being with a kind soul who was loved by many people. Ryder was an active, curious and infinitely joyful child. Dennis Dutton and his son Jack were deeply loved as well, and their loss is felt by all who knew them. Craig Wadsworth was beloved by many in the NASCAR community and will be missed by those who knew him. Each of them meant everything to us, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives. At this moment, our focus is on honoring their lives and supporting one another.”
According to the Associated Press, Biffle, 55, was traveling with his wife, as well as daughter Emma, 14, and son Ryder, 5, aboard a Cessna C550 that crashed while attempting to land in foggy weather at Statesville Regional Airport in Statesville at around 10:15 a.m. (about 45 miles north of Charlotte). There were six people on board, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Local news outlet WSOC reported that the plane is owned by Biffle through GB Aviation Leasing. The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA are investigating the incident, saying that the plane took off from the airport shortly after 10 a.m. but then returned and was attempting to land there. Data shows that the plane had planned to fly from Sarasota, Florida, to Treasure Cay International Airport in the Bahamas before returning to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and then heading to Statesville that evening.
Nicknamed “The Biff,” Biffle spent the entirety of his NASCAR career with Roush Racing from 2003-2016, now known as RFK Racing, which also issued a statement mourning his loss. Biffle won multiple championships during his racing career including in the Truck Series in 2000 and the Xfinity Series in 2002. He was also named as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023, and received the 2024 NMPA Myers Brothers Award for humanitarian aid last year.
NASCAR also released a statement on Thursday which read: “NASCAR is devastated by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, Craig Wadsworth and Dennis and Jack Dutton in a fatal plane crash. 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.”
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