Tragedy struck the NASCAR world Thursday when an airplane crashed at Statesville Regional Airport, claiming the lives of former driver Greg Biffle and six others.
Crash Details
Around 10:15 a.m., a small aircraft went down at the airport, according to a release from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. The crash occurred at the airport’s runway and left seven people dead.
Victims
NASCAR released a list of those who lost their lives:
- Greg Biffle
- Cristina Grossu (Biffle’s wife)
- Emma Elizabeth (Biffle’s daughter with former wife Nicole Lunders)
- Ryder Jack (Biffle’s son with Grossu)
- Craig Wadsworth
- Dennis Dutton (father)
- Jack Dutton (son)
Family Statement
Biffle’s family, along with the families of the other victims, issued a joint statement on Thursday afternoon:
> “Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Greg’s entire family, friends, and all who were touched by his life,” the NASCAR statement reads in part.
The statement also reflected on the profound loss felt by the community and the enduring legacy of those who perished.
Biffle’s Life and Career
Greg Biffle was born on Dec. 23, 1969, to Garland Jack Biffle and Sally Frye. He was 55 when he died.
He began his racing career in 2002 and continued until 2016, competing in NASCAR’s top series. Over those years he:
- Started 515 races
- Won 19 races
- Secured 13 poles
- Claimed the Truck Series championship in 2000
- Earned Rookie of the Year honors in 2001
- Won the Xfinity Series title in 2002
Biffle finished in the top-10 of the Cup Series standings six times and was runner-up in 2005. In 2023 he was named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers. He was nominated for the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2025 and was inducted into the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame that same year.
Beyond the track, Biffle used his personal helicopter to assist in relief efforts during Hurricane Helene.
Personal Life
On Oct. 17, 2007, Biffle married Nicole Lunders. Their daughter, Emma Elizabeth, was born on July 6, 2011, and died at age 14. The couple divorced in 2016. In January 2023, Biffle married Cristina Grossu. Their son, Ryder Jack, was born on Sept. 9, 2020, and died at age 5.
Community Reaction
Driver Kenny Wallace, who had known Wadsworth for years, said, “Craig Wadsworth drove … our motorhome for six years,” and added that his family is heart-broken.
Key Takeaways
- Greg Biffle, a former NASCAR driver, died in a plane crash with his wife, son, daughter, and three others.
- The crash happened at 10:15 a.m. at Statesville Regional Airport, killing seven people.
- Biffle’s racing legacy includes 19 wins, a Truck Series title, and being named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers.
The loss of Greg Biffle and his family has sent shockwaves through the racing community, highlighting the fragility of life and the tight bonds that define the sport.
