Tragedy in the Skies: NASCAR Legend Greg Biffle and Family Killed in Plane Crash – Wife's Final Text Revealed
On December 18, 2025, the NASCAR community and beyond were struck by profound grief when retired champion driver Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina Grossu Biffle, and two children perished in a devastating plane crash at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina. The accident claimed seven lives total, marking one of the most heartbreaking losses in recent motorsports history.
Greg Biffle, aged 55, was a beloved figure in NASCAR, celebrated for 19 Cup Series victories, championships in the Truck Series (2000) and Xfinity Series (2002), and his inclusion among NASCAR's 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023. Nicknamed “The Biff,” he competed primarily with Roush Fenway Racing (now RFK Racing) from 2002 to 2016, with sporadic returns including five races in 2022. Beyond racing, Biffle was renowned for philanthropy, particularly his heroic efforts after Hurricane Helene in 2024, coordinating air drops and relief supplies to affected areas in North Carolina.
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The fatal flight involved a 1981 Cessna Citation C550 registered to Biffle's company, GB Aviation Leasing, LLC. The plane took off from Statesville around 10 a.m., bound for a birthday trip—Biffle was set to turn 56 on December 23. Flight data shows it flew for about 10 minutes before turning back toward the airport, possibly due to an issue. It crashed short of the runway during an emergency landing attempt, erupting into flames.
Also killed were Biffle's 14-year-old daughter Emma (from his previous marriage to Nicole Lunders), 5-year-old son Ryder (shared with Cristina), friend Craig Wadsworth, and father-son duo Dennis and Jack Dutton. Three occupants held pilot licenses, including Biffle, who was licensed for single- and multi-engine planes and helicopters; investigators have not yet determined who was flying.
In a heartbreaking revelation, Cristina Biffle texted her mother, Cathy Grossu, moments before the crash: “We're in trouble.” Grossu, who had been texting with her daughter throughout the flight, replied asking about the plane but received no response—followed by an automatic SOS alert from Cristina's iPhone. “That was it,” Grossu told outlets exclusively. “We're devastated. We're brokenhearted.” The family was reportedly excited for the trip, with no indication of prior issues.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, recovering the cockpit voice recorder and examining maintenance logs. Preliminary reports note calm winds but low ceilings and heavy rain, potential factors under review. No mayday call was issued, and a full report may take 12-18 months. The wreckage showed the plane impacted near the runway, with debris scattered across the site.
Tributes poured in swiftly. NASCAR stated: “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.” Team owner Jack Roush called Biffle a “dear friend and partner,” highlighting immeasurable contributions. Congressman Richard Hudson, a friend, praised Biffle's humanitarian work: “They were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others.”
A joint family statement expressed devastation: “Greg and Cristina were devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives were centered around their young son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma.” Friends like ARCA driver Garrett Mitchell confirmed the news somberly, noting the family was en route to visit him.
Biffle's legacy extends far beyond the track. His post-Helene efforts earned the 2024 Myers Brothers Award for humanitarianism. He founded the Greg Biffle Foundation for animal welfare and was known for quiet generosity.
The crash echoes aviation risks in motorsports—team owner Roush survived multiple incidents. Biffle himself was unharmed in a 2011 small plane mishap.
As investigations continue, the racing world mourns a champion, philanthropist, and family man. Thoughts remain with the bereaved families, including Nicole Lunders and the Duttons and Wadsworths.
Rest in peace to Greg, Cristina, Emma, Ryder, and all aboard.