Greg Biffle and Family Die in Plane Crash

Credit: Debbie Ross for Skirts and Scuffs

Retired NASCAR driver and humanitarian Greg Biffle has died in a plane crash,  alongside his wife and two children. 

Biffle’s wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryker were accompanying Biffle on the flight. Three other people were also aboard the Cessna Citation business jet. Those people have been confirmed to be Dennis Dutton, his son Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth.

Officials confirmed that seven people were on the small plane when it crashed at Statesville (N.C.) Regional Airport around 10:15 a.m. ET. 

The families of those involved in the crash released a statement, acknowledging each member on the plane: 

 “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.

We ask for privacy, compassion and understanding as we grieve and begin to process this unimaginable loss. We are grateful for the kindness and support that has been extended to our families during this incredibly difficult time. At this moment, our focus is on honoring their lives and supporting one another.”

Condolences poured in all afternoon for Biffle, who was announced as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest drivers in 2023. Biffle's accomplishments included winning 19 races throughout his 15-year career in the NASCAR Cup Series. 

Biffle won two championships in both of the lower-tier series. Biffle earned the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (formerly Xfinity, and Busch Series when Biffle earned his title) championship in 2002. Additionally, he secured the Craftsman Truck Series title in 2000.   He was the first driver to achieve this accomplishment, and one of only three to do so thus far.

Biffle was also known for his humanitarian efforts, which included rescuing and bringing relief to victims during Hurricane Helene in the Appalachians of North Carolina and Tennessee. 

NASCAR released a statement on Biffle on Thursday: 

“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."

The Federal Aviation Administration was on the crash site Thursday afternoon, and the National Transportation Safety Board will take over the investigation on Friday. The FAA said that it generally releases preliminary accident reports the next day.