Former NASCAR champion Greg Biffle and three members of his family tragically lost their lives in a plane crash in North Carolina on September 28, 2023. A Cessna C550 business jet, owned by Biffle’s aviation company, crashed while attempting to land at Statesville Regional Airport at approximately 10:20 a.m. local time. The deceased include Biffle’s wife, Christina, their 14-year-old daughter, Emma, and 5-year-old son, Ryder.
Representative Richard Hudson expressed his condolences on social media, stating, “My heart is with all who loved them. They were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others.” Hudson emphasized Biffle’s contributions both on and off the racetrack, recalling how the family dedicated themselves to humanitarian efforts. After Hurricane Helene, the Biffles conducted numerous rescue missions in western North Carolina, delivering essential supplies such as chainsaws, EpiPens, and food to families in need.
Hudson also highlighted Christina Biffle’s recent inquiries about supporting relief initiatives in Jamaica, underscoring the family’s commitment to community service. “That’s who the Biffles were. Our prayers are with their family, friends, and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss,” he concluded.
Fellow NASCAR driver and longtime friend Garrett Mitchell confirmed the identities of those on board the ill-fated flight. On Facebook, he wrote, “Unfortunately, I can confirm Greg Biffle, his wife Christina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder were on that plane…because they were on their way to spend the afternoon with us. We are devastated. I’m so sorry to share this.”
Witnesses from the nearby Lakewood Golf Club reported seeing the plane flying unusually low before it crashed during light rain and cloudy conditions. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are currently investigating the incident to determine the cause of the crash.
Greg Biffle, 55, enjoyed a successful career in NASCAR, securing 19 wins in the Cup Series. He is recognized as one of the few drivers to have won championships in both the Busch Series and the Craftsman Truck Series. In 2001, he was named NASCAR Rookie of the Year and was recently honored as one of NASCAR’s 75 greatest drivers in 2023.
The tragic loss of the Biffle family has sent shockwaves through the NASCAR community and beyond. As investigations continue, tributes to their legacy of service and dedication to helping others are pouring in from fans and colleagues alike.
