Who is Greg Biffle? NASCAR star and family die in Statesville plane crash | World | News
NASCAR star Greg Biffle died along with his family in a devastating plane crash in Statesville, North Carolina. Mr. Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma and son Ryder with two others in the Cessna C550 he owns.
The plane crashed in foggy conditions shortly after takeoff, prompting an ongoing investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board as tributes poured in from the racing community for the beloved driver and philanthropist. Former NASCAR champion, born Gregory Jack Biffle, rose to prominence as one of the sport’s most versatile drivers on December 23, 1969, in Vancouver, Washington.
Born Gregory Jack Biffle on December 23, 1969, in Vancouver, Washington, the 56-year-old has emerged as one of the sport’s most versatile drivers.
Nicknamed “Biff,” he accomplished the rare feat of winning championships in both the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (2000) and Xfinity Series (2002), and then excelled in the Cup Series with Roush Fenway Racing.
During his career, Biffle claimed 19 Cup victories, including prestigious races such as the Southern 500 at Darlington, and finished second in the 2005 championship standings.
A perennial playoff contender, he finished in the top 10 six times and was recognized as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers.
Beyond the track, Biffle was an avid pilot and philanthropist. He held a private pilot’s license and frequently used his plane for personal travel.
In recent years, he has won admiration for his humanitarian efforts, flying his helicopter to deliver essential supplies and restore communications in areas devastated by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina.
Mr. Biffle was married to Cristina Grossu, with whom he shares a young son, Ryder, and had a daughter, Emma, from a previous marriage.
Biffle’s Cessna C550 business jet, registered to GB Aviation Leasing, is thought to have taken off from Statesville Regional Airport shortly before making an emergency return landing at around 10.20am in foggy conditions.
Eyewitnesses reported that there was a huge explosion at the moment of impact. Authorities confirmed the deaths of six people, including Biffle, his wife, children and others on board.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating why, and the racing community is pouring in praise for a driver known for his fearlessness on the track as well as his generosity off it.
Garrett Mitchell (also known as YouTuber Cleetus McFarland) said in a Facebook post: “Unfortunately, I can confirm that Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder were on that flight… as they were on their way to spend the afternoon with us. We are devastated. I am so sorry to share this.”
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