The families of NASCAR champion Greg Biffle and the others killed in Thursday’s devastating plane crash have released an emotional joint statement, as new details continue to emerge about the final moments before the tragedy.
In a message shared publicly for the first time, relatives of the victims expressed their grief following the crash that claimed the lives of Biffle, his wife Cristina Grossu Biffle, their two young children, and three close family friends.
“We are devastated by the loss of our loved ones,” reads the statement, shared by Fox Sports reporter Bob Pockrass on X. “This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words.”
The statement provides a moving tribute to those who died, highlighting the close-knit relationships and the lives cut short.
Greg and Cristina Biffle with their kids. Credit: Greg Biffle/Instagram.
Remembering Greg, Cristina, Ryder and Emma
The families honors Greg and Cristina Biffle as parents whose lives revolved around their children – five-year-old Ryder and 14-year-old Emma, whom Greg shared with his ex-wife, Nicole Lunders.
“Greg and Cristina were devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives were centered around their young son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma,” the statement continues.
“Emma was a wonderful human being with a kind soul who was loved by many people. Ryder was an active, curious and infinitely joyful child.”
The tribute paints a picture of a family defined by generosity, compassion and love, qualities that friends say extended far beyond the racing world.
Identities of the Other Victims Confirmed
The statement also confirms the identities of the three other people killed in the crash: Dennis Dutton, his son Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth.
“Dennis Dutton and his son Jack were deeply loved as well, and their loss is felt by all who knew them,” it reads. “Craig Wadsworth was beloved by many in the NASCAR community and will be missed by those who knew him.”
Wadsworth was a familiar figure in the motorsports world and had previously worked closely with NASCAR driver Kenny Wallace, even driving Wallace’s motorhome during race weekends.
Details of the Fatal Crash
The fatal incident occurred around 10:15 a.m. Thursday when the Cessna C550 business jet crashed while attempting to land at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina amid poor weather conditions. According to the Associated Press, the plane exploded into a fireball upon impact.
Flight data indicates the aircraft had taken off from the same airport shortly after 10 a.m. and was en route to Sarasota, Florida, before attempting to return. Family friend Garrett Mitchell later confirmed that the group had been traveling for what was meant to be a joyful trip.
Greg Biffle and wife Cristina with their 2 kids in February 2022. Credit: Cristina Grossu Biffle/Instagram.
Heartbreaking Final Message
The tragedy became even more devastating when it was revealed that Cristina Grossu Biffle had sent a chilling final text to her mother moments before the crash, writing simply: “We’re in trouble.”
Greg Biffle, affectionately known as “The Biff”, was a celebrated NASCAR figure, winning the Truck Series championship in 2000 and the Xfinity Series title in 2002. In 2023, he was named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers and received the 2024 Myers Brothers Award for humanitarian service.
The families conclude their statement by saying their focus now is on honoring the lives lost and supporting one another through unimaginable grief.
“Each of them meant everything to us,” the statement reads. “Their absence leaves an immeasurable void.”