North Carolina Disaster: 7 Killed in Light Plane Crash, Including Famous Racing Driver

Another aviation disaster strikes just before the end of the year. Seven people were killed in the crash of a Cessna C550 yesterday, around 10:00 a.m., North Carolina time.

After hours of rumors, the airport issued a statement stating that one of the passengers who died was Greg Biffle, a famous NASCAR racing driver. The Auto Racing Association confirmed the details and said, "We are heartbroken by Bifffle's death." 

Greg Biffle. Photo: Shutterstock

The plane crashed while attempting to land at Statesville Regional Airport in the town of Statesville, North Carolina. 

The airport's statement said: "Per the NC State Highway Patrol, the aircraft involved in the crash has been identified as a GBAviation Leasing aircraft. There are seven confirmed deceased occupants. At this time, names cannot be released due to the post-crash fire. Identification is pending confirmation from the medical examiner. It is believed that Greg Biffle was on board the aircraft; however, this information has not yet been officially confirmed.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will assume the investigation and is expected to be on scene tomorrow, Friday, December 19, 2025. Additional information will be released by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as it becomes available. The City of Statesville and Statesville Regional Airport extend their deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims during this difficult time."

The Trans Am Series, North America's popular sports car racing series, woite a heartfelt message on their Facebook page: 

"We are heartbroken to learn of the loss of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder. Greg ran with the Trans Am Series in the All-Star Race at Lime Rock Park last year, and he was selected because he truly was a racing star. Named one of NASCAR's 75 Greatest Drivers, he was also known for his tremendous humanitarian work. Our thoughts are with the families of those lost and all who knew them. Godspeed."