“We know it sounds a bit silly (okay, a lot silly), but honestly, life’s too short for negativity."
According to the Associated Press, semi-retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family have died following a plane crash in North Carolina.
On Thursday, December 18, Biffle, his wife, Cristina, and their children, 5-year-old Ryder and 14-year-old Emma, who Biffle shared with Nicole Lunders, were aboard a business jet when it crashed shortly after taking off.
As the AP reports, the Cessna C550 burst into flames as it attempted to land shortly after taking off from Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina enroute to Florida. What caused the crash has not yet been reported to the public.
USA Today reports the weather during the incident as “severe.”
The plane was registered to a company run by Biffle.
In addition to Biffle and his family, three other individuals were aboard the aircraft. Those individuals have been identified as Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth.
Following the news, NASCAR shared a statement, writing that “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 on the sport.”
During his time with NASCAR, Biffle’s wins included 19 Cup Series wins and many more. He is currently a nominee for induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, according to USA Today.
Biffle was named one of NASCAR’s 75 greatest drivers in 2023.
The crash is currently being investigated by the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board.
In a joint statement shared by all the families affected by this crash, they wrote that they “are devastated by the loss of our loved ones. This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words.”
The statement, shared on X, continues, calling Greg and Cristina “devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives were centered around their young son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma.”
Emma was described as a “wonderful human being with a kind soul.” Ryder was known for being “an active, curious, and infinitely joyful child.”
“Dennis Dutton and his son Jack were deeply loved as well, and their loss is felt by all who knew them,” the statement continued. “Craig Wadsworth was beloved by many in the NASCAR community and will be missed by those who knew him.”
“Each of them meant everything to us, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives.”
