Trump sends condolences to Greg Biffle, family after deadly plane crash

President Donald Trump remembered Greg Biffle as a “wonderful young man” Friday during a speech in North Carolina, a day after the former NASCAR star and family members died in a plane crash.

Biffle, his wife, sons and daughter were among seven people killed when their plane crashed at Statesville Regional Airport Thursday morning. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Investigator-in-Charge Dan Baker said the plane took off at approximately 10:05 a.m. ET and began returning to the airport five minutes after takeoff.

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The plane crashed about 10 minutes after takeoff.

“I also want to express my condolences to the people of this state,” Trump said. “And to the loved ones of NASCAR legend Greg Biffle, who died yesterday along with his family in a tragic plane crash in Statesville.

GREG BIFFLE’S WIFE SENT A WORRIED MESSAGE MOMENTS BEFORE THE PLANE CRASHED

President Donald Trump speaks with former NASCAR Cup series driver Greg Biffle, left, and NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty before the NASCAR Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 16, 2025 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Chris Graythen / POOL / AFP via Getty Images)

“I met him twice. He was a wonderful young man and what a tragedy this is for his entire family. So I just want to send our condolences, our love. Let me tell you, North Carolina, we will never forget them. He and his family were incredible people.”

Biffle, 55, was killed along with his wife Cristina and their children Ryder (5) and Emma (14). The other three people killed on the ship were identified as Dennis Dutton, his son Jack and Craig Wadsworth.

The professional race car driver has won more than 50 races on NASCAR’s three tracks, including 19 at the Cup Series level. He also won the Trucks Series championship in 2000 and the Xfinity Series championship in 2002.

NASCAR Cup Series driver Greg Biffle participates in the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway on March 20, 2022 in Hampton, Georgia. (Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports)

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NASCAR called Biffle “a beloved member of the NASCAR community, a fierce competitor and a friend to many.”

Fox News’ Paulina Dedaj contributed to this report.

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