A tragic plane accident in North Carolina has claimed the lives of former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife Christina, and their two children, Ryder and Emma, according to information released by authorities. The crash resulted in a total of seven fatalities, which also included fellow passengers Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth. Officials confirmed that the incident is being treated as an accident, and the exact cause has not yet been determined. Federal and state agencies have launched a full investigation to understand what led to the crash and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The family had been traveling on what was intended to be a joyful birthday celebration trip, making the loss even more heartbreaking for relatives and friends. Christina’s mother, Cathy, later shared that she received a brief text message from her daughter shortly before the accident occurred. The message indicated that there was a serious situation unfolding on the aircraft, but no additional communication followed. Cathy explained that the uncertainty and sudden loss have been incredibly difficult to process, especially given the closeness of their relationship and the happy plans the family had ahead.
Reflecting on her final time with them, Cathy said she had spent the day before the trip with the family and described the visit as loving and full of warmth. She shared that remembering those moments brings both comfort and pain, as it highlights the strong bond they shared. Family friend Garrett Mitchell, widely known online as Cleetus McFarland, also acknowledged the tragedy in a public statement. He noted that the family had been traveling to meet him, and he expressed deep sorrow while extending condolences to everyone affected by the loss.
According to a witness near Statesville Regional Airport, the aircraft appeared to be flying at a low altitude shortly before the accident, which occurred at approximately 10:15 a.m. Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, and multiple agencies, including airport officials, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, and the Federal Aviation Administration, confirmed the incident. Authorities stated that a formal investigation is ongoing and emphasized that it may take time before clear answers are available. As the investigation continues, the local community and the wider motorsports world are mourning the loss, remembering the family for their warmth, kindness, and the lives they shared together.