Seven people have been confirmed dead in the plane crash that killed former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle on Thursday, December 18.
Biffle, who was 55, his wife, Cristina, and two kids, daughter Emma and son Ryder, have all been confirmed dead. Family friend and NASCAR motorhome driver Craig Wadsworth died as well, along with pilot Dennis Dutton and his son, Jack.
“We are all devastated by the loss of our loved ones,” the victims’ families said in a joint statement released Thursday afternoon. “This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words. Greg and Cristina were devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives were centered around their young son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma (mother – Nicole Lunders). Emma was a wonderful human being with a kind soul who was loved by many people. Ryder was an active, curious and infinitely joyful child.”
The statement continued, “Dennis Dutton and his son Jack were deeply loved as well, and their loss is felt by all who knew them. Craig Wadsworth was beloved by many in the NASCAR community and will be missed by those who knew him.”
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The crash occurred at approximately 10:15 a.m. ET as the plane was attempting to land at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina. They were headed for Sarasota, Florida, and then the Bahamas — a favorite vacation spot of the Biffle family, and also where Greg and Cristina got married in 2023.
While it was revealed that Biffle was the owner of the plane soon after the crash, its passengers were not confirmed until family friend Garrett Mitchell wrote via Facebook that the former driver and his family had been killed.
“Each of them meant everything to us, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives,” the families’ statement read. “We ask for privacy, compassion and understanding as we grieve and begin to process this unimaginable loss. We are grateful for the kindness and support that has been extended to our families during this incredibly difficult time.”
“At this moment, our focus is on honoring their lives and supporting one another,” the statement concluded.
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In the hours since the news broke, tributes have started to pour in from the NASCAR world.
“Craig Wadsworth drove our motorhome for six years,” professional driver Kenny Wallace wrote via X. “Our family is heart broke right now 😔 He died on the airplane. I will be giving my thoughts at a later date😔❤️”
Four-time NASCAR cup champion Jeff Gordon also weighed in, pointing to Greg and Cristina’s generosity.
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“Devastating news,” he wrote via X. “I had such tremendous respect for Greg as a driver, and we shared countless tough battles on the track. Like so many others, I was inspired by his tireless relief work during Hurricane Helene. My heart goes out to the Biffle family and everyone hurting.”
NASCAR released a statement as well, saying, “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.”
“Greg was more than a champion driver, he was a beloved member of the NASCAR community, a fierce competitor, and a friend to so many,” the statement continued. “His passion for racing, his integrity, and his commitment to fans and fellow competitors alike made a lasting impact on the sport.”