The NASCAR community is grieving the shocking death of Greg Biffle, who was killed in a plane crash with his family Thursday morning at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina. Bubba Wallace honors Greg Biffle with a heartfelt tribute as others across racing mourn the loss.
Bubba Wallace Shares Heartfelt Tribute Following Loss
Following the tragic news, 23XI Racing’s Bubba Wallace posted a poignant photograph of Greg Biffle and his loved ones on social media, honoring the late driver and his family who also perished in the accident. The NASCAR world, including both current and former drivers, joined him in remembering Biffle’s legacy and expressing condolences to all those affected by the devastating event.
“🙏 pic.twitter.com/pF8i5T46yW” — Bubba Wallace, NASCAR Driver
Tragic Circumstances Surrounding the Crash
Greg Biffle, alongside his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder, was traveling to meet Garrett Mitchell—widely recognized online as Cleetus McFarland—and his family when the crash occurred. Also on the Cessna C550 were Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth; all lost their lives. The aircraft went down at approximately 10:15 a.m. ET, crashing during landing at the Statesville Regional Airport, about an hour’s drive north of Charlotte, North Carolina.
Eyewitnesses were taken aback as the plane descended unusually low and ultimately crashed, igniting wreckage and sending plumes of heavy smoke into the air, reducing the aircraft to rubble. Local viewers captured the haunting final moments of the attempt to land.
Initial Investigations and Challenging Weather
According to CNN, a federal source confirmed a NASCAR-associated individual was on the ill-fated flight. The Biffle family, in a statement shared by Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports, confirmed Greg Biffle died in the accident. At the time of the crash, low visibility and rain created hazardous conditions in the area. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will fully investigate the crash, with a press conference scheduled on Friday to present preliminary findings.
Remembering Biffle’s Impact on NASCAR
Greg Biffle achieved wide recognition in NASCAR, rising to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s. He secured a Truck Series championship in 2000 and an O’Reilly Auto Parts Series title in 2002. From 2003 to 2016, he drove the No. 16 Ford for Roush Fenway Racing, compiling a total of 19 wins at the sport’s highest level. Biffle’s storied career included finishing second to Tony Stewart in the Chase for the 2005 championship. His success on the track was matched by the respect he earned among fellow drivers and fans alike.
Community Grieves a Major Loss
The loss has left a mark on NASCAR’s tight-knit community, highlighted by the many tributes shared by drivers and organizations. Bubba Wallace and others’ expressions of respect and sorrow speak to Biffle’s influence and character. As the investigation unfolds, the racing world gathers in support of the loved ones of Biffle, Cristina, Emma, Ryder, and the other victims. The broader significance of this tragedy will undoubtedly shape NASCAR’s remembrance of one of its accomplished athletes and the safety measures for future travels.
— Bubba Wallace (@BubbaWallace) December 18, 2025
Statement from the Greg Biffle families on the plane crash today: pic.twitter.com/dEgaHF6qQV
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) December 18, 2025
