The NASCAR Cup Series tragedy unfolded on Thursday morning when Greg Biffle, a celebrated former driver, died in a plane crash outside Statesville, North Carolina. The accident claimed the lives of Biffle, age 55, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder, cutting short the career and legacy of a figure with deep ties to American motorsport.
Details Released on the Fatal Crash at Statesville Regional Airport
Officials at Statesville Regional Airport, situated about 45 minutes north of Charlotte, confirmed that the crash occurred around 10:15 am. The Cessna C550 involved was reportedly owned by Greg Biffle himself. Garrett Mitchell, known in the motorsport world as Cleetus McFarland, publicly confirmed the devastating development Thursday afternoon.
“Unfortunately, I can confirm Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder were on that plane … because they were on their way to spend the afternoon with us,”
Garrett Mitchell posted to Facebook at 1:25 pm Thursday.
“We are devastated. I’m so sorry to share this.”
– Garrett Mitchell, Motorsports Personality
The list of casualties also included Craig Wadsworth, identified by Kenny Wallace via social media as his former motorcoach driver. The news has rippled through the racing community, with tributes and expressions of grief pouring in from fellow competitors and fans alike.
Biffle’s Racing Achievements and Recent Involvement in Community Outreach
Greg Biffle was widely recognized as a champion in both the NASCAR Xfinity Series and the Craftsman Truck Series. Over his distinguished career, he claimed 19 NASCAR Cup Series victories and spent the bulk of his career, from 2003 to 2016, competing for RFK Racing, which was previously known as Roush-Fenway Racing and Roush Racing. His 2005 season was a standout, finishing with six wins and second place in the standings, right behind Tony Stewart.
Biffle’s impact extended beyond the racetrack, particularly in the wake of Hurricane Helene in September 2024, which struck Western North Carolina with devastating force. Using his helicopter, Biffle delivered vital supplies to hard-to-reach communities, a gesture mirrored by Garrett Mitchell. Their joint relief efforts led to a lasting friendship, and Biffle became a frequent participant at events organized by Mitchell throughout the past year.
Enduring Presence in the Racing World and Legacy Honored
Born in Vancouver, Washington, Biffle remained active in motorsports after stepping away from full-time Cup Series competition in 2016. In recent years, he took part in several Stafford Speedway events, including the inaugural SRX Series race in June 2021 where he finished second to six-time NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour champion Doug Coby. His love for the sport saw him continue competing, with appearances at the New England 900 events at Stafford, finishing 14th in July 2024 and then claiming another second-place finish in his return, trailing only NASCAR Cup Series driver Ryan Preece.
Named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023, Biffle leaves a significant legacy in both competition and community. The sudden loss of Greg Biffle in this plane crash will be deeply felt throughout motorsports, as fans, friends, and colleagues reflect on his contributions and the impact he made across the NASCAR Cup Series and beyond.
