Former NASCAR champion Greg Biffle, a celebrated figure in American auto racing, was killed along with his wife Cristina, their two children, and three others when their private jet crashed on Thursday. The tragedy occurred as the Cessna C550 aircraft attempted to land at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina, authorities confirmed.

The incident, which happened around 10:20 AM local time, has sent shockwaves far beyond the racetrack. Biffle, 55, was not just known for his 19 top-level Cup Series victories, but as a hero who used his personal helicopter for rescue missions after Hurricane Helene devastated the region in 2024.

In a statement, NASCAR lamented the loss of a "beloved member of the NASCAR community, a fierce competitor, and a friend to so many." The organization emphasized that Biffle's legacy was cemented by both his on-track tenacity and his off-track compassion.

A Champion's Legacy Beyond the Track

Tributes have poured in from across the United States, highlighting Biffle's character. North Carolina Governor Josh Stein noted on X, formerly Twitter, that Biffle "lived a life of courage and compassion and stepped up for western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene." This sentiment was echoed by U.S. Congressman Richard Hudson, who recalled Biffle flying hundreds of rescue missions.

The crash is currently under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board. According to flight tracking data, the jet took off from the airport and was attempting to return for a landing shortly after when the crash occurred.

The other victims were identified as Dennis Dutton, his son Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth. A joint statement from the families expressed their profound grief, describing Biffle and his wife as "devoted parents and active philanthropists."

Biffle's death silences a figure whose impact was felt as powerfully in disaster zones as it was in the winner's circle, leaving a void in the heart of his community.