Former NASCAR champion Greg Biffle and his family tragically lost their lives in a plane crash in North Carolina on October 26, 2023. The incident occurred when a Cessna C550 business jet, owned by Biffle through his company GB Aviation Leasing, crashed while attempting to land at Statesville Regional Airport at approximately 10:20 a.m. local time.
The victims include Biffle, his wife Christina, their 14-year-old daughter Emma, and 5-year-old son Ryder. Their deaths have sent shockwaves through the racing community and beyond, prompting an outpouring of grief and condolences.
Representative Richard Hudson expressed his sorrow on social media, stating, “My heart is with all who loved them. They were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others.” Hudson highlighted Biffle’s significant contributions to the community, including numerous rescue missions following Hurricane Helene, where the family provided essential supplies to those in need.
Biffle had a distinguished career in NASCAR, boasting 19 career Cup Series wins. He was recognized as one of NASCAR’s 75 greatest drivers in 2023, and he previously earned the title of Rookie of the Year in 2001. His legacy on the racetrack was matched by his commitment to philanthropy, as noted by Hudson’s remarks about the Biffle family’s dedication to community service.
According to fellow NASCAR driver and close friend Garrett Mitchell, Biffle and his family were on their way to spend time with him when the accident occurred. “We are devastated. I’m so sorry to share this,” Mitchell wrote in a heartfelt post on Facebook.
Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft flying unusually low before it crashed, which occurred during drizzly and overcast weather conditions. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
The Biffle family’s untimely death is a profound loss for their community and fans worldwide. As the investigation continues, tributes are likely to pour in, celebrating their lives and the impact they made both on and off the racetrack.
