A devastating private jet crash at Statesville Regional Airport on December 18, 2025, resulted in the deaths of all seven people on board, authorities confirmed. The Cessna Citation C550 erupted in flames shortly after takeoff, marking a heartbreaking loss for the motorsports community and beyond.
Among the victims were retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, their young son Ryder, and Biffle’s daughter Emma from a previous marriage. Also killed were Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth. The plane, registered to a company associated with Biffle, had departed around 10 a.m. but attempted an emergency return to the runway, crashing in a fiery explosion witnessed by nearby golfers.
Biffle, a champion in NASCAR’s Xfinity and Truck Series with numerous Cup Series wins, was remembered for his philanthropy, including helicopter rescue missions after Hurricane Helene ravaged western North Carolina. “Greg lived a life of courage and compassion,” said Governor Josh Stein.
The FAA and NTSB are investigating the cause, with preliminary reports noting drizzle and low clouds. Families released a joint statement: “This tragedy has left us heartbroken beyond words.
