Tragedy strikes as former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and family believed dead in Statesville Regional Airport plane crash. Investigation underway.
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Greg Biffle Believed Dead in Statesville Plane Crash
A heartbreaking incident has shaken the motorsports world as former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family are believed to be among the seven people killed in a plane crash at Statesville Regional Airport, North Carolina. Authorities are actively investigating the crash, with details still emerging.
Statesville Plane Crash: What Happened?
On Thursday morning, a Cessna C550 owned by a company linked to Greg Biffle crashed while attempting to land at the Statesville Regional Airport. The plane reportedly burst into flames upon impact, prompting immediate emergency response. According to BBC News, all seven onboard are presumed dead, though official identification of victims is ongoing.
Timeline of Events
- 10:06 AM: The jet departs from its origin.
- 10:20 AM: Crash and fire occur during attempted landing at Statesville Regional Airport.
- Emergency responders arrive to a blazing wreck and begin rescue/recovery efforts.
- Authorities temporarily close airport for investigation and debris removal.
Grieving a Racing Legend: Tributes to Greg Biffle
The racing community and fans worldwide are mourning the sudden loss of Greg Biffle. Congressman Rich Hudson expressed his condolences and paid tribute to Biffle and his family’s commitment to humanitarian causes, especially their support during hurricane relief. Professional athlete Mitchell Garret also publicly mourned the loss, sharing that he was planning to see the Biffle family that very day.
Official Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
John Ferguson, Statesville Airport’s director, identified the aircraft as a corporate jet. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation, sending a specialized team to the scene. The cause of the plane crash remains undetermined, and the airport remains closed as federal authorities examine the wreckage.
The Statesville Regional Airport is known for its service to business and sports travelers, including several NASCAR teams and Fortune 500 companies due to its proximity to Charlotte.
A Legacy on the Track: The Career of Greg Biffle
Greg Biffle, 55, is remembered as a NASCAR icon with a career spanning over twenty years:
- 19 Cup Series victories
- First driver to win both the Xfinity and Craftsman Truck Series championships
- Rookie of the Year in the Craftsman Truck Series (1998) and the Xfinity Series (2001)
- Named to NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers list in 2023
Biffle, affectionately known as “The Biff,” not only thrilled fans with his skill and tenacity on the track but also made significant humanitarian contributions alongside his family. You can learn more about their charitable work in our NASCAR charitable efforts section.
The Biffle Family’s Community Impact
Beyond his race wins, Greg Biffle was lauded for hands-on assistance in disaster relief in North Carolina and Jamaica, embodying the spirit of giving back.
A Glimpse of Biffle’s Return to Racing
Though he retired from full-time racing in 2016, Biffle staged a thrilling return to NASCAR in 2019 with a dramatic victory at Texas Motor Speedway. He continued to inspire up-and-coming drivers through involvement in the sport.
“Racing is racing. It’s that adrenaline…I just enjoy the competition.” — Greg Biffle, NASCAR.com
Investigation Underway
The NTSB will continue to gather evidence at the crash site in the coming days. Updates regarding the official cause and confirmation of victims will be released as the inquiry progresses.
Stay Informed
Follow the latest news and developments surrounding the Statesville plane crash and NASCAR at our regularly updated NASCAR news section.
Source: BBC News