AVONDALE, AZ (AZFamily/WBTV/Gray News) — The Phoenix NASCAR community is remembering the life and legacy of retired NASCAR star Greg Biffle.
He and his family were among the seven killed in a fiery plane crash in North Carolina on Thursday.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the Cessna C550 erupted into a large fire when it hit the ground. The plane had departed Statesville Regional Airport, about 45 miles north of Charlotte, but soon crashed while trying to return and land, North Carolina authorities said.
Biffle was on the plane with his wife, Cristina, and children Ryder, 5, and Emma, 14, according to the highway patrol and a family statement. Others on the plane were identified as Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth.
Biffle won 54 races across NASCAR’s three circuits during his career, including 19 in the Cup Series. He also won the Trucks Series championship in 2000 and the Xfinity Series title in 2002.
“Really, for NASCAR, no matter who you are, you are part of the race family. It is just that, it is a family,” said Phoenix Raceway president Latasha Causey.
Biffle’s decorated NASCAR career included 26 Cup Series starts at Phoenix Raceway and as well as wins during Xfinity and Truck Series races in the Valley over his career.
Causey says she last saw Biffle, who was named one of NASCAR’s 75 greatest drivers, during championship weekend in Phoenix several weeks ago.
“The thing that I always remember the most are the high fives, right? Because we’re always hustling and bustling and we’re moving and, you know, it’s always like a great, ‘Hey, Latasha, good to see you. Greg, great to see you,’” she said.
After his racing career, Biffle became known for his humanitarian efforts, including using his private helicopter to deliver aid to the flooded areas in western North Carolina and east Tennessee as part of Operation Helidrop. His efforts spearheaded NASCAR’s own response in providing aid to those impacted by Hurricane Helene.
“The biggest thing with Greg is about community,” said Causey.
NASCAR released a statement following Biffle’s death:
“NASCAR is devastated by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, Craig Wadsworth and Dennis and Jack Dutton in a fatal plane crash.
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.
On the track, Greg’s talent and tenacity earned him championships in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, as well as numerous wins and accolades in the NASCAR Cup Series. Beyond his racing career, he gave of himself for the betterment of our community. Most notably, Greg spent countless hours of his time helping the citizens of North Carolina during the disasters that followed Hurricane Helene. His tireless work saved lives.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Greg’s entire family, friends, and all who were touched by his life.”
The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash.
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