Greg Biffle, Family Die in Fatal Plane Crash at Statesville Airport

Statesville, North Carolina — A plane crashed at the Statesville Regional Airport on Thursday, killing seven people, including veteran NASCAR racer Greg Biffle.

An “aircraft incident” was confirmed at Statesville Regional Airport at around 10:15 a.m. The airport will remain closed until further notice while investigators try to identify the cause of the collision and clean the area, according to Statesville officials.

Greg, his wife Cristina, their son Ryder, and Greg’s daughter Emma were among the victims, according to a joint statement from the victims’ families. Craig Wadsworth, Jack Dutton, and Dennis Dutton were also slain.

“We are devastated by the loss of our loved ones. This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words,” the statement said, in part. “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.”

The family was traveling to Florida to see Garrett Mitchell, whose online alias is Cleetus McFarland. When Biffle arranged flights to deliver aid to Hurricane Helene victims in western North Carolina, McFarland and Biffle grew close. Biffle also took part in a number of Mitchell’s racing competitions.

“We are heartbroken. Mitchell posted on social media, “I’m so sorry to share this.”

Kenny Wallace, a former NASCAR racer, posted a picture of Wadsworth along with the statement that he drove Wallace’s camper for six years. Wadsworth assisted Biffle as well.

NCSHP verified that GB Aviation Leasing, a business controlled by former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, is the owner of the aircraft with tail number N257BW. No information about the possible passengers on the aircraft has been released by the authorities. The NTSB will provide the most recent information on the inquiry during a press conference on Friday.

Before it crashed, the aircraft was traveling to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport. Regarding the collision, Paul L. Hoback Jr. released the following statement:

“We are deeply saddened by the news of the Cessna C550 aircraft crash at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina and enroute to SRQ this morning. Our thoughts and prayers are with those on board and with their families and loved ones during this difficult time. Our thoughts also go out to the first responders who we know are diligently working to assist all those involved.”

Local, state, and federal agencies are present, according to Statesville City Manager Ron Smith.