NASCAR Driver Greg Biffle, Wife Cristina Grossu Biffle, and Children Mourned After Deadly Statesville Plane Crash

Families of retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his wife, Cristina Grossu Biffle, are speaking out following a devastating plane crash at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina that claimed multiple lives.

The crash occurred Thursday morning when a private Cessna Citation jet, reported to be owned by Biffle, went down shortly after takeoff. Authorities say the aircraft attempted an emergency landing after witnesses heard a loud noise from the jet.

Families Confirm Losses, Investigation Ongoing

In a joint statement released through NASCAR on December 18, the families confirmed the deaths of Greg Biffle, Cristina Grossu Biffle, and their children, as well as other passengers on board.

“We are devastated by the loss of our loved ones,” the statement read. “This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words.”

The families described Greg and Cristina as devoted parents and active philanthropists, saying their lives centered around their children—Ryder, 5, and Emma, 14.

Emma, whom Greg shared with his ex-wife Nicole Lunders, was remembered as “a wonderful human being with a kind soul who was loved by many people.” Ryder was described as “an active, curious and infinitely joyful child.”

Final Moments and Intended Trip

Cristina’s mother, Cathy Grossu, told People magazine that the family was traveling to Florida for a birthday vacation when the crash occurred at approximately 10:15 a.m.

“To think that they would be killed on a birthday trip, that was just such a fun time for the family,” she said. “And to see the horrific way that it ended—it’s so hard to bear.”

Grossu said she last heard from her daughter moments before the crash.

“She texted me from the plane and said, ‘We’re in trouble,’” she said. “That was it. We’re devastated. We’re brokenhearted.”

Other Victims Remembered

In addition to the Biffle family, Dennis Dutton, Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth were also killed in the crash. All were remembered in the joint family statement.

“Dennis Dutton and his son Jack were deeply loved, and their loss is felt by all who knew them,” the families said. “Craig Wadsworth was beloved by many in the NASCAR community and will be missed by those who knew him.”

Community Grief and Call for Privacy

The families asked for privacy as they begin to process the tragedy.

“We ask for compassion and understanding as we grieve this unimaginable loss,” the statement continued. “Our focus now is on honoring their lives and supporting one another.”

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and authorities have not yet released an official determination.