THE FLYOVER NORTH CAROLINA – A Cessna C550 business jet crashed Thursday around 10:15 a.m. while attempting to land at Statesville Regional Airport in Iredell County. The crash killed 55-year-old former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife, Cristina, their son Ryder, and Biffle’s daughter Emma. Additional fatalities include Dennis Dutton, his son, Jack, and Craig Wadsworth.
The aircraft had taken off shortly before attempting to return, erupting in flames upon impact.
Authorities confirmed seven fatalities. Fog and low visibility were present at the time of the crash, although it is not confirmed if this contributed to the accident.
Business records show the plane is owned by GB Aviation Leasing, a company affiliated with Biffle. Statesville Regional Airport serves corporate aviation, including several NASCAR teams.
The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating. The airport remained closed as of Thursday evening as emergency responders continued operations.