Former NASCAR champion Greg Biffle and his family were killed when a plane crashed in North Carolina.
Fatalities were previously confirmed after a Cessna C550 business jet crashed while landing at Statesville Regional Airport around 10:20 a.m. on Thursday.
The plane is owned by former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle through GB Aviation Leasing, and officials have now confirmed that Biffle, his wife Christina, 14-year-old daughter Emma, and 5-year-old son Ryder are among the victims.
“My heart is with all who loved them,” Rep. Richard Hudson said on X. “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.”
Hudson said the Biffles flew hundreds of rescue missions in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene, delivering chainsaws, EpiPens, baby formula, fuel, and food to stranded families in inaccessible areas.
Cristina had also recently reached out to ask how she could help with relief efforts in Jamaica, Rep. Hudson said.
“That’s who the Biffles were. Our prayers are with their family, friends, and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss,” the statement concluded.
Fellow NASCAR driver and longtime friend of Biffle’s, Garrett Mitchell, also said Biffle and his family were on the plane.
“Unfortunately, I can confirm Greg Biffle, his wife Christina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder were on that plane...because they were on their way to spend the afternoon with us,” Mitchell wrote on Facebook. “We are devastated. I’m so sorry to share this.”
A witness from nearby Lakewood Golf Club observed the incident and told the TV station that the plane was “way too low” before it crashed amid drizzle and cloudy skies.
The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating.
Biffle, 55, had 19 career Cup Series wins and is one of three drivers that have won a championship in both the Busch Series and the Craftsman Truck Series.
The NASCAR Rookie of the Year in 2001, Biffle was named one of NASCAR’s 75 greatest drivers in 2023.
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