Federal investigators have released a chilling new account of the private jet crash that claimed the lives of NASCAR icon Greg Biffle, his immediate family, and three friends last week.
The Final Flight and Devastating Impact
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirmed the 1981 Cessna Citation jet was airborne for a mere ten minutes before the fatal incident at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina. The crash occurred at approximately 10:15 am on Thursday morning amid poor weather conditions, including light rain and a dangerously low cloud ceiling.
NTSB investigator Dan Baker outlined a catastrophic sequence of events during a Friday briefing. The initial impact was with a runway light stanchion roughly 1,800 feet from the runway threshold. The aircraft then struck trees, two further runway light stanchions, and the airport perimeter fence, leaving a trail of wreckage stretching 1,800 feet.
The jet ultimately came to rest near the runway threshold, where it was immediately engulfed by a massive post-impact fire. Baker stated the blaze consumed most of the fuselage and the inboard sections of the wings.
A Community in Mourning for a Racing Titan
The crash killed 55-year-old Greg Biffle, a revered figure in motorsport known as 'The Biff'. He was one of only three drivers in history to win championships in both the NASCAR Busch Series (now Xfinity Series) and the Craftsman Truck Series. He died alongside his wife, Cristina, his 14-year-old daughter Emma, and his five-year-old son Ryder.
Also lost in the tragedy were family friends Dennis Dutton, his son Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth. The group was travelling to Florida to visit close friend and popular YouTuber Garrett 'Cleetus McFarland' Mitchell, who shared the devastating news on social media.
In an emotional statement, NASCAR described Biffle as a beloved member of the NASCAR community, a fierce competitor, and a friend to so many. The organisation also highlighted his recent philanthropic efforts, notably his tireless work aiding North Carolina citizens in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
The families of the victims issued a joint statement, remembering Greg and Cristina as devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives were centered around their children. They asked for privacy and compassion as they grieve this unimaginable loss.
Investigation Continues with Key Evidence
Despite the severe damage, investigators have successfully recovered the aircraft's cockpit voice recorder. This device is expected to provide crucial evidence about the pilot's final actions and communications in the minutes leading to the crash.
The NTSB's investigation remains ongoing as officials work to piece together the exact cause of the accident that has left the motorsport world and multiple families heartbroken.
