A routine morning flight turned into a devastating tragedy when former NASCAR star Greg Biffle, his wife Christina, and their two children, Emma, 14, and Ryder, 5, were among seven people killed in a private jet crash near Statesville, North Carolina.
The private Cessna C550 had just taken off from Statesville Regional Airport on a rainy Thursday morning, December 18, 2025, when the aircraft reportedly ran into trouble. Early reports suggest the pilot attempted to return to the runway, but the plane lost altitude rapidly and crashed into an open field, erupting into flames on impact. All seven passengers were killed, including Dennis Dutton and his son Jack, as well as Craig Wadsworth.
The crash, captured in chilling surveillance video, shows the jet descending sharply before striking the ground, sending thick black smoke spiraling into the sky. Witnesses described flames and heat radiating from the explosion, leaving locals shaken. “I looked over and saw it. When it exploded, I could feel the heat from here,” said resident Michael Wingo.
Biffle, known as “The Biff,” was celebrated as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers, with 19 Cup Series wins and decades of racing success from 2002 through 2022. Beyond the track, Biffle was recognized for his humanitarian work, including using his helicopter to deliver supplies after Hurricane Helene, and for supporting his community in countless ways. NASCAR and fans nationwide have shared heartfelt tributes. “The NASCAR family is devastated at the loss of Greg Biffle,” wrote the organization, honoring his legacy on and off the track.
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