NASCAR Driver Greg Biffle Killed in Plane Crash: Investigation Underway
A devastating plane crash claimed the lives of NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his family, and three others on Thursday in North Carolina. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff from Statesville Regional Airport, involving a Cessna Citation 550 registered to Biffle’s company.
Accident Overview
According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the crash happened around 10:15 a.m. EST as the aircraft attempted to land on Runway 28. NTSB board member Michael Graham confirmed that all seven individuals on board were killed, including Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, and three others: Dennis and Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth.
Preliminary Findings
NTSB investigator Dan Baker reported preliminary data indicating that the aircraft executed a left turn shortly after takeoff before returning toward the airport. The initial impact was with a runway light stanchion approximately 1,800 feet from the runway’s threshold, followed by collisions with trees and additional stanchions.
“Post-impact fire consumed the majority of the fuselage and inboard wing sections,” Baker noted. Both engines and flight control surfaces have been located within the wreckage.
Black Box Recovery
Investigators successfully recovered the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) from the wreckage, although the aircraft was not equipped with a flight data recorder, as it was not mandated. The CVR is being transported to the NTSB’s Washington, D.C., facility for analysis.
Next Steps in Investigation
While a full investigation is expected to take 12-18 months, adverse weather conditions have hindered efforts to map the debris field fully. Investigators are also looking into reports that one passenger may have sent a text message indicating a potential issue prior to the crash.
The NTSB has requested information from anyone who may have captured photos or videos of the accident or who witnessed the incident. More updates will follow as the investigation proceeds.
Conclusion
This tragic event marks a significant loss for the motorsports community. Further details will be provided as the NTSB continues its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
