NASCAR driver Greg Biffle plane crash: Clint Bowyer pays tribute to Biffle, family in wake of tragedy

Former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his family and a number of other passengers were killed in a plane crash Thursday morning. The crash happened at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina.

Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic reported that the North Carolina State Highway Patrol confirmed seven deaths. They also said that they “believe that Mr. Greg Biffle was one of the deceased occupants.” Biffle’s family confirmed his death in a statement obtained by Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports.

It’s a devastating tragedy, one which has rocked the NASCAR community. As news of his death became public, drivers — both current and former — paid tribute to Biffle on social media. Clint Bowyer, who raced against Biffle in NASCAR for over 10 years, shared a message on X.

“Absolutely crushed about the loss of Greg Biffle and his beautiful family,” Bowyer wrote. “An unbelievable talent behind the controls of literally anything. Checked all the boxes…Great guy, helped people in need, and most importantly was a great family man. Devastated for everyone!”

Greg Biffle and family die in plane crash

According to Garrett Mitchell, best known as Cleetus McFarland on YouTube, the Biffle family was on their way to spend the afternoon with him and his family. Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma and son Ryder were all on the plane, according to McFarland. Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth also died in the crash. Biffle was 55.

Biffle made a name for himself in NASCAR in the late '90s and early 2000s, winning a Truck Series championship in 2000 and an O’Reilly Auto Parts Series title in 2002. He raced full-time in the Cup Series from 2003-2016, driving the No. 16 Ford for Roush Fenway Racing. Biffle compiled 19 wins in NASCAR’s top series, finishing runner-up to Tony Stewart in the Chase for the 2005 championship.

Biffle was heavily involved last year in Hurricane Helene relief efforts in western North Carolina. At a time when North Carolina needed help, Biffle helped provide it. Biffle used his personal helicopter to get supplies to people in western North Carolina. Additionally, his Venmo account accepted donations to pay for the fuel and supplies that were being delivered.