STATESVILLE, N.C. (AP) — A tragic plane crash occurred on Thursday, December 18, 2025, shortly after takeoff from Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina, resulting in the deaths of all seven individuals on board. Among the victims was retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, who was traveling with his family, including his wife Cristina, and their two children, Ryder, 5, and Emma, 14.
The aircraft, a Cessna C550, crashed while attempting to return to the airport in adverse weather conditions characterized by drizzle and cloud cover. According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the jet erupted into flames upon impact after departing the airport, which is located approximately 45 miles (72 kilometers) north of Charlotte. Flight records indicated that the plane was registered to a company operated by Biffle, although it remains unclear whether he was piloting the plane at the time of the incident.
Also aboard the ill-fated flight were Dennis Dutton and his son Jack, along with Craig Wadsworth. The families affected by this tragedy expressed their deep sorrow in a joint statement, mourning the loss of their loved ones and highlighting the significant void their absence has created in their lives.
Biffle, 55, was a distinguished NASCAR driver, having secured over 50 race wins across all three major circuits, including 19 victories in the Cup Series. His accomplishments also include winning the Trucks Series championship in 2000 and the Xfinity Series title in 2002. NASCAR responded to the news with profound grief, stating that Biffle was more than just a champion on the racetrack; he was a cherished member of the racing community and a friend to many. His legacy in the sport was marked by his dedication, integrity, and a lasting positive influence on both fans and fellow drivers.
The Cessna C550, manufactured in 1981, is known for its reliability as a mid-sized business jet, typically accommodating six to eight passengers. It was bound for Florida at the time of the crash, which occurred shortly after 10 a.m. Observers, including golfers at the nearby Lakewood Golf Club, described the moment as harrowing; they reported seeing the plane flying dangerously low before it crashed, prompting them to drop to the ground as debris fell nearby.
The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are currently conducting an investigation to determine the causes behind the crash and the aircraft's distress signals that led to its return to the airport.
Reflecting on Biffle's contributions beyond racing, he was recognized in 2024 for his humanitarian efforts after Hurricane Helene, during which he used his personal helicopter to deliver aid to affected regions in western North Carolina. U.S. Representative Richard Hudson acknowledged Biffle’s character, recalling a recent conversation with Cristina about relief efforts in Jamaica, emphasizing the Biffles’ commitment to helping others.
Wadsworth, who was also part of the flight, had a close relationship with Biffle and often assisted him with various tasks, including humanitarian missions. Friends described Wadsworth as someone who couldn’t say no to helping others and who was greatly loved within the NASCAR community.
The crash adds to a significant number of aviation incidents this year, with the National Transportation Safety Board reporting a total of 1,331 U.S. crashes under investigation so far in 2025. This figure is notably lower than the 1,482 total crashes reported in 2024, highlighting ongoing safety concerns within the aviation industry.
Major air disasters in 2025, which have drawn international attention, include a plane-helicopter collision in Washington that resulted in 67 fatalities and a catastrophic crash in India involving an Air India flight that killed 260 people. Additionally, a UPS cargo plane crash in Kentucky claimed the lives of 14 individuals, including 11 on the ground.
As the investigation unfolds, the aviation community and the families affected by this devastating crash continue to grieve the loss of their loved ones, particularly honoring the contributions and legacy of Greg Biffle.
