‘Heartbroken beyond words’: Greg Biffle family speaks out after fatal plane crash

STATESVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA: The families of retired NASCAR star Greg Biffle and the other victims of Thursday’s fatal plane crash broke their silence by releasing a joint statement identifying all seven people who died in the accident. The statement, shared publicly by NASCAR reporter Bob Pockrass, marked the first response from the families since the crash.

The plane went down at Statesville Regional Airport amid poor weather conditions, killing Biffle, his wife, his two children, and three close associates who were traveling together to Florida.

Joint statement confirms deaths of Greg Biffle and immediate family

The joint statement confirmed that Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina Grossu Biffle, their 5-year-old son Ryder, and Biffle’s 14-year-old daughter Emma were among those killed when their Cessna C550 crashed shortly after takeoff. Emma’s mother was identified as Nicole Lunders. 

"We are devastated by the loss of our loved ones. This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words,” the statement read.

The families described Greg and Cristina Biffle as devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives revolved around their children. Emma was remembered as a kind and loving teenager, while Ryder was described as a joyful and curious child whose energy filled every room.

“Greg and Cristina were devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives were centered around their young son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma,” the statement said. “Emma was a wonderful human being with a kind soul who was loved by many people. Ryder was an active, curious, and infinitely joyful child.”

Statement honors Dennis Dutton, Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth

In addition to the Biffle family, the statement formally identified the three other victims as Dennis Dutton, his son Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth. The families emphasized that their loss extended far beyond the immediate families and deeply impacted the NASCAR community. 

Dennis and Jack Dutton were described as deeply loved, with their deaths leaving a lasting void for friends and loved ones. Craig Wadsworth was remembered as a familiar and respected presence in the racing world, having previously worked as a motorhome driver for retired NASCAR driver Kenny Wallace.

“Dennis Dutton and his son Jack were deeply loved as well, and their loss is felt by all who knew them,” the statement said. “Craig Wadsworth was beloved by many in the NASCAR community and will be missed by those who knew him.”

The families added that their focus remained on honoring the lives lost and supporting one another through the tragedy.

Details emerge about Statesville Regional Airport plane crash

According to the Associated Press and flight tracking data, the crash occurred shortly after 10 am The aircraft departed from Statesville Regional Airport, about 45 miles north of Charlotte, with Sarasota, Florida, listed as its destination. 

Authorities indicated that the jet attempted to return to the airport after encountering poor weather conditions. The plane ultimately crashed and exploded upon landing.

Family friend Garrett Mitchell later confirmed on social media that the group had been traveling to Florida to spend the day with his family. 

Greg Biffle’s NASCAR career and legacy remembered

Greg Biffle, a Vancouver native widely known by his nickname “The Biff,” was a celebrated NASCAR driver who won championships in both the Truck Series and Xfinity Series. In recent years, he had been honored as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers and received the 2024 NMPA Myers Brothers Award for his humanitarian efforts.

The families concluded their statement by asking for privacy as they grieve and work to honor the memories of all seven victims.