Greg Biffle, Family Among Victims Killed in Statesville Jet Crash
Family members of those killed in a plane crash at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina released a joint statement expressing profound grief over the loss of their loved ones.
In a statement issued by the Biffle, Grossu, Dutton, and Lunders families, relatives described the tragedy as “heartbreaking beyond words” and asked for privacy as they begin to process the devastating loss.
The statement highlighted the lives of former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his wife, Cristina, describing them as devoted parents and dedicated philanthropists whose lives centered on helping others. Their children, Emma, 14, and Ryder, 5, were remembered as loving, joyful, and deeply cherished by their family and community.
Also killed in the crash were Dennis Dutton and his son Jack, who family members said were deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. Craig Wadsworth, a respected figure in the NASCAR community, was also among the victims and was remembered for his lasting impact on those who knew him.
Former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, 55, Cristina Biffle, and their two children were confirmed among the victims in a statement released by U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson of North Carolina. The aircraft involved was a Cessna C550 business jet owned by GB Aviation Leasing LLC, a company owned by Biffle, according to federal aviation records.
Officials said the plane departed Statesville Regional Airport at approximately 10:20 a.m. Thursday and crashed shortly after takeoff while en route to the Bahamas via Sarasota, Florida. The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation, with assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration.
Witnesses near the airport reported seeing the aircraft flying unusually low before it crashed, with debris scattered near the runway and nearby golf course. Emergency crews responded quickly, but all six people aboard the aircraft were killed.
Beyond his racing career, Biffle was widely praised for his humanitarian work. Following Hurricane Helene, he personally flew rescue and supply missions to isolated communities across western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee, delivering medical supplies, food, and communications equipment.
In their statement, the families said their focus is now on honoring the lives of those lost and supporting one another during an unimaginable time of grief, while expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support from the public.
