A plane crash in North Carolina has tragically claimed the lives of race car driver Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina Grossu, their two children, and three additional passengers. As they process this profound sorrow, the families of those lost are expressing their grief.

In a statement released by NASCAR on December 18, the families shared, “We are shattered by the loss of our cherished loved ones. This catastrophe has left us all in deep mourning.”

Relatives fondly remembered Greg and Cristina for their dedication as parents and their philanthropic spirit. They were deeply committed to their son, Ryder, 5, and Greg’s daughter, Emma, 14, both of whom perished in the December 18 crash at Statesville Regional Airport.

Their relatives went on to remember Greg and Cristina—a realtor and travel agent—as “devoted parents and active philanthropists,” saying their lives centered around their son Ryder, 5, and Greg’s daughter Emma, 14, both of whom died in the Dec. 18 crash at Statesville Regional Airport.

Emma—who the 55-year-old shared with ex-wife Nicole Lunders—was remembered as “a wonderful human being with a kind soul who was loved by many people,” while the family noted Ryder “was an active, curious and infinitely joyful child.”