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A shocking incident was captured on video, showing the moment when NASCAR driver Greg Biffle’s small plane burst into a fireball upon crashing on a runway, tragically claiming the lives of the professional driver, his wife, their children, and three family friends.
Surveillance footage reveals the Cessna 500 completely engulfed in flames as it hurtled down the runway at Statesville Regional Airport Thursday morning, eventually coming to a stop amidst thick, black smoke.
Among those who perished in the crash were Biffle, aged 55, his wife Cristina, their children—14-year-old daughter Emma and 5-year-old son Ryder—alongside Craig Wadsworth, Dennis Dutton, and Dutton’s son, Jack.
The group of seven was en route to Florida for a birthday celebration, as confirmed by family members.
“We are heartbroken beyond words over the loss of our loved ones. This tragedy has left all of our families devastated,” expressed the families affected by the crash in a joint statement shared with My Fox 8.
“Each of them meant everything to us, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives,” they added.
Biffle owned the plane that crashed at the airport, frequently used by NASCAR drivers and Fortune 500 companies, just before 10:30 a.m.
Cristina had texted her mom, Cathy Grossu, “We’re in trouble” just before the crash, People magazine reported.
Biffle, affectionately known by his fans as “The Biff,” enjoyed a strong racing career that earned him a NASCAR Hall of Fame nomination, along with a spot on NASCAR’s list of its 75 greatest drivers.
“NASCAR is devastated by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emaa, son Ryder, Craig Wadsworth and Dennis and Jack Dutton in a fatal plane crash,” the organization told The Post in a statement.
“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. His passion for racing, his integrity, and his commitment to fans and fellow competitors alike made a lasting impact on the sport.”
The semi-retired speedster was also widely known for his humanitarian efforts, and made national headlines last year when he fearlessly flew his personal helicopter to save a person stranded in North Carolina during Hurricane Helene.
His actions earned him the National Motorsports Press Association’s Myers Brother Award, which honors those who contribute to stock car racing.