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Devastating Loss: Greg Biffle’s Family Releases Heart-Wrenching Two-Sentence Statement After Tragic Plane Crash Claims NASCAR Legend and Loved Ones

In a tragedy that has left the NASCAR community and the nation reeling just days before Christmas, retired racing icon Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, their young son Ryder, and daughter Emma were among seven people killed in a private plane crash on December 18, 2025. The extended families of the victims released a poignant joint statement—only two sentences long—that has brought tears to countless eyes, capturing the profound heartbreak of an unimaginable loss.

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The full announcement, issued jointly by the Biffle, Grossu (Cristina’s family), Dutton, and Lunders (Emma’s mother’s family) families, reads: “We are devastated by the loss of our loved ones. This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words.”

These simple yet shattering words underscore the depth of grief following the crash of a Cessna C550 business jet at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina. The plane, registered to a company associated with Biffle, crashed shortly after takeoff around 10:15 a.m., erupting into flames upon impact. All seven aboard perished: Greg Biffle, 55; his wife Cristina Grossu Biffle, 35; their 5-year-old son Ryder; Greg’s 14-year-old daughter Emma (from his previous marriage to Nicole Lunders); pilot Dennis Dutton and his son Jack; and longtime friend Craig Wadsworth.

The family was reportedly en route to Florida to visit YouTuber and racer Garrett Mitchell (Cleetus McFarland), who first shared the devastating news on social media. In the days leading up to the crash, the Biffles had been spreading holiday cheer through Greg’s “12 Days of Biffmas” giveaway series on social media, gifting thousands to fans and helping over 1,000 children in need.

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Heartbreaking details have emerged, including a final text from Cristina to her mother: “We’re in trouble,” sent moments before the crash. Her mother, Cathy Grossu, described Ryder as a “bundle of energy” aspiring to be a Formula One driver and Emma as a “good girl” with a kind soul. Friends received the family’s holiday card days after the tragedy, featuring joyful photos of Greg, Cristina, Emma, and Ryder in matching outfits, with a message hoping recipients “slow down and enjoy the magic and joy that this season has to offer.”

Greg Biffle, nicknamed “The Biff,” was one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers, amassing 19 Cup Series wins, the 2000 Truck Series championship, and the 2002 Xfinity Series title during his storied career with Roush Fenway Racing. In retirement, he became renowned for humanitarian efforts, using his helicopter for hundreds of rescue and supply missions after Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina.

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NASCAR’s statement echoed the family’s sorrow: “NASCAR is devastated by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, Craig Wadsworth and Dennis and Jack Dutton in a fatal plane crash.” Tributes poured in from legends like Jeff Gordon, who called the news “devastating,” and North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein, who praised Biffle’s compassion.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating, recovering the cockpit voice recorder amid questions about the brief flight and rapid return attempt in poor weather. Biffle, a licensed pilot who survived a previous plane incident in 2011, leaves behind a legacy of speed, generosity, and family devotion.

As the nation approaches the holidays, this profound loss—of a champion father, devoted mother, and two vibrant children—serves as a somber reminder of life’s fragility. The brief family statement, though short, resonates deeply, uniting a grieving community in shared tears and memories of lives cut tragically short.