Tragic accident in North Carolina – NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family killed in crash
Sad news from the United States: former NASCAR star Greg Biffle is dead. The 55-year-old was killed in a plane crash in Charlotte, North Carolina. The accident occurred on Thursday. Particularly tragic: his wife Cristina and their two children, Emma and Ryder, were also on board the plane and did not survive the crash.
Other victims of the devastating accident include Dennis and Jack Dutton, as well as Craig Wadsworth, who was known in the scene as Kenny Wallace’s personal driver. According to reports, the group was on their way to visit Garrett Mitchell, known by his YouTube name “Cleetus McFarland,” who is himself active in the ARCA series.
The flight took off from a small airport in Charlotte. Shortly afterwards, the private plane apparently attempted to turn around to land again. This resulted in a fatal crash on the eastern runway. The exact cause of the accident is still under investigation by the relevant authorities.
From “Biff” to hero of the skies
Biffle was not only at home on the racetrack, but also a passionate pilot who owned several small aircraft. He had recently used this passion to help people in need: in the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, Biffle flew numerous relief missions in his private helicopter to help the isolated population in western North Carolina. In social media and expressions of condolence, he is therefore often honored not only as a race car driver, but also as a down-to-earth person and helper.
In terms of sport, Greg Biffle shaped an era in Jack Roush’s team. As the face of the number 16, he competed in 515 NASCAR Cup races during his career. “The Biff,” as he was known to fans and colleagues, had his most successful season in 2005, when he finished the championship in second place overall.
During his 16-year career in the premier class, the man from Vancouver, Washington, celebrated a total of 19 victories. What many people don’t know is that Biffle had German roots. His ancestors came from the municipality of Contwig in Rhineland-Palatinate.
In addition to his successes in the Cup, he won championships in the Xfinity Series and the Truck Series, making him one of the most versatile drivers of his generation.
NASCAR reacts with shock
NASCAR released an emotional statement on Thursday evening (December 18, 2025) regarding the death of the race car driver: “NASCAR is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, his daughter Emma, his son Ryder, Craig Wadsworth, and Dennis and Jack Dutton in a fatal plane crash.”
“Greg was more than just a champion driver; he was a valued member of the NASCAR community, a passionate athlete, and a friend to so many. His passion for racing, his integrity, and his dedication to fans and competitors alike have left a lasting mark on the sport,” the statement continued.
The association also praised Biffle’s efforts off the track: “Of particular note is that Greg spent countless hours helping the citizens of North Carolina during the disasters following Hurricane Helene. His tireless efforts saved lives. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Greg’s entire family, his friends, and all those whose lives were touched by him.”