Greg Biffle, Ex-NASCAR Star, Killed in Plane Crash

Greg Biffle, the former NASCAR driver, his wife Cristina and their two children were among seven people killed when a private Cessna C550 crashed while attempting to land at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina on Dec. 18, 2025. Authorities have confirmed the crash and an active investigation is underway.

• Who: Greg Biffle, wife Cristina, son Ryder, daughter Emma, plus three others.
• Where: Statesville Regional Airport, North Carolina.
• When: Dec. 18, 2025, crash occurred around 10:20 a.m. while attempting to land.
• Cause under review: NTSB and FAA investigating; adverse weather and low visibility cited as possible factors.
• Other victims identified: Dennis Dutton, Jack Dutton and Craig Wadsworth.

The crash and immediate confirmation

The jet, reported to be owned by Biffle, attempted to return to the airport shortly after takeoff amid foggy, drizzly conditions and crashed while trying to land. Motorsport YouTuber Garrett Mitchell first announced the deaths on social media; NASCAR later confirmed the identities and issued statements. Federal investigators from the NTSB and FAA have opened an inquiry to determine what led to the tragedy.

Who were the other victims?

In addition to Greg Biffle and his family, NASCAR confirmed three other passengers killed in the crash: Dennis Dutton, his son Jack Dutton, and motorsports figure Craig Wadsworth. Dennis Dutton was a veteran pilot and a former International A-330 Captain for Delta Airlines and a retired U.S. Air Force Reserve officer. Jack Dutton was a flight student at Auburn University who had recently earned his instrument-rated private pilot certification. Craig Wadsworth was a well-known member of the NASCAR community, recognized for his longtime work as a motorhome driver for prominent figures in the sport.

The legacy of Greg Biffle

Greg Biffle was a prominent figure in American stock-car racing and a familiar face across NASCAR’s national series. His top achievements include:

1. Long-time competitor and race winner across NASCAR’s national series, known for his aggressive driving and competitiveness.
2. Key driver for Roush Fenway Racing, earning respect across teams, crew chiefs and fans alike.
3. Beloved member of the motorsports community and an active philanthropist who supported youth and community causes.

Families’ statement and reactions

The families issued a joint statement saying they were “heartbroken beyond words,” describing Greg and Cristina as “devoted parents and active philanthropists” and remembering Emma and Ryder as “wonderful” and full of joy. The statement also paid tribute to Dennis and Jack Dutton and Craig Wadsworth, noting each “meant everything to us” and that their loss leaves an immeasurable void.

Tributes poured in across social platforms and within the racing world. Drivers, teams and fans used X (formerly Twitter) to share condolences and memories, while motorsports outlets posted rolling coverage as the investigation continues. Garrett Mitchell — who first shared the news — and NASCAR representatives have been among the most visible voices confirming the tragedy and requesting privacy for the families.

Investigation and next steps

The NTSB and FAA are leading the probe; investigators will review weather data, radar, cockpit communications and aircraft maintenance records. Authorities have not yet released information on who was piloting the aircraft at the time of the crash. Officials have asked for patience as they piece together the sequence of events that led to this loss.

We extend our deepest condolences to all the families affected. Death Note Pro will update this story as investigators release new information and as tributes from the motorsports community continue to arrive.