The NASCAR community and aviation world are reeling from the devastating news that former Cup Series star Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, and their two children, Emma and Ryder, were among the six people killed in a private jet crash at Statesville Regional Airport on December 18, 2025. The accident involved a Cessna C550 Citation II business jet (tail number N257BW), registered to GB Aviation Leasing LLC, a company managed by Biffle himself. Flight tracking data shows the aircraft departed Statesville Regional Airport around 10:06 a.m. local time but quickly attempted to return, crashing near the end of the runway approximately 14 minutes later. The jet erupted into flames upon impact, with witnesses describing a massive explosion and thick black smoke. Greg Biffle Plane
Local authorities, including the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office, confirmed multiple fatalities, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stating six people were on board and no survivors. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a full investigation, deploying a “go team” to the site. Weather conditions at the time included low clouds, drizzle, and reduced visibility, which investigators will examine as a potential factor, though no official cause has been determined yet.
Heartbreaking confirmation came from Garrett Mitchell, a close family friend and popular YouTuber/racer known as Cleetus McFarland. In an emotional Facebook post, Mitchell wrote: “Unfortunately, I can confirm Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder were on that plane… because they were on their way to spend the afternoon with us. We are devastated.” The family was reportedly en route to Florida to visit Mitchell when tragedy struck.
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Remembering Greg Biffle: A Racing Icon and Humanitarian
Born on December 23, 1969, in Vancouver, Washington, Greg Biffle rose from off-road racing roots to become one of NASCAR’s most versatile champions. He burst onto the national scene in the late 1990s with Roush Fenway Racing (now RFK Racing), dominating the lower series before excelling in the Cup level.
Biffle’s accolades are impressive:
- 2000 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Champion
- 2002 NASCAR Xfinity Series (then Busch Series) Champion
- 19 NASCAR Cup Series wins, including prestigious victories at Daytona and Darlington
- Runner-up in the 2005 Cup Series standings
- Named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023
His aggressive driving style and consistency made him a fan favorite during his prime years from 2003 to 2016. Biffle’s last full-time Cup season was in 2016, but he continued making occasional starts, including a notable return in 2022.
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Beyond the track, Biffle was a licensed pilot who used his skills for remarkable good. In 2024, following the devastation of Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina, he personally flew numerous helicopter relief missions, delivering essential supplies to isolated communities cut off by flooding. His Greg Biffle Foundation also supported animal welfare causes, reflecting his passion for helping others.
Biffle was married to Cristina Grossu since 2023; they shared young son Ryder (born 2020). He also had daughter Emma (born 2011) from a previous marriage. The loss of his entire immediate family has compounded the tragedy.
Tributes Pour In from the Racing World
Reactions have flooded social media and statements from across motorsports. U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson called Biffle “a great NASCAR champion who thrilled millions of fans” and praised his selfless hurricane relief efforts.
NASCAR officials and former competitors expressed profound shock and grief, highlighting Biffle’s lasting impact both on and off the track. The close-knit North Carolina racing community, where many teams are based near Statesville, feels this loss deeply.
The NTSB is expected to provide preliminary updates soon, with a full report likely taking months. For ongoing coverage, follow updates from WSOC-TV, Motorsport.com, and WRAL.
Our deepest condolences go out to the Biffle family, friends, the other victims’ loved ones, and the entire NASCAR family during this unimaginable time of sorrow.
