Aviation Tragedy Claims Lives of Racing Legend and Family
A devastating plane crash in Statesville on Thursday resulted in the loss of all seven individuals aboard, including former NASCAR competitor Greg Biffle, aged 55, his spouse Cristina, and their two children, Ryder, 5, and Emma, 14.
According to flight tracking information, the aircraft departed from Statesville Regional Airport at 10:06 a.m. and crashed approximately nine minutes later.
Witnesses described hearing troubling sounds before the impact. "I heard his engine sputtering in and out in and out," stated observer Jim Bridges. "And then the next instance I heard a big explosion and the crash. I looked out the window and there were fires all the way following him."
The Cessna C550, a mid-sized business jet, caught fire upon hitting the ground. The plane was registered to a company owned by Biffle, who held certifications to operate helicopters and various aircraft types. It is not yet confirmed whether he was controlling the plane during the accident.
Flight data suggests the jet attempted to turn back for an emergency landing amid rainy and overcast weather conditions shortly after takeoff.
Authorities from the National Transportation Safety Board are conducting a thorough investigation. Initial results are anticipated within one to two months, with a comprehensive report expected in one to two years.
The loss has deeply affected the community. A joint family statement expressed profound grief, also mourning Dennis Dutton and his son Jack, who were on the flight, noting "they were deeply loved as well, and their loss is felt by all who knew them."
Roommate Benito Howell shared that fellow passenger Craig Wadsworth had previously assisted Biffle in delivering aid supplies during relief operations.
