The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released a preliminary report on the December plane crash that claimed the lives of seven individuals, including former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle. The report provides details about who was piloting the aircraft and highlights some possible issues encountered during the flight, though no definitive cause has yet been determined. The full investigation is expected to take 12 to 18 months.
The crash involved a Cessna Citation 550 that went down nine minutes after taking off as it attempted to return to Statesville (N.C.) Regional Airport. The plane came down about 1,030 feet short of the runway and caught fire. Those who perished included Biffle’s wife Christina Gross, his children Emma (14) and Ryder (5), pilot Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Biffle’s employee Craig Wadsworth. The group was traveling to Florida, with a prior stop in Bradenton to meet racer and content creator Cleetus McFarland.
According to the NTSB, Dennis Dutton acted as the primary pilot with his son Jack as co-pilot; however, Jack was not FAA-certified for the role despite having 175 hours of flight time. Dennis Dutton was required to hold first officer certification. Biffle, a certified pilot himself, was seated in the rear passenger area and attempted to assist by identifying a possible issue with the aircraft. During takeoff, Biffle noticed that the left engine was producing more power than the right and helped guide the pilot to the runway amid a 1,200-foot cloud ceiling.
The report also noted potential malfunctions with the altimeter and an additional instrument on the left side. There was no indication of any catastrophic engine failure. While the cockpit audio recorder was recovered, poor sound quality meant special efforts were needed to decipher the recordings.
Throughout the 2026 NASCAR season, tributes are planned to honor Biffle, who won 19 Cup races and a track championship, as well as achievements in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (formerly Xfinity), where he raced for Roush Fenway Racing. Biffle’s family has also collaborated with the Carolina Foundation to create the Biffle Family Legacy Impact Fund, devoted to helping those in need and reflecting their commitment to community support.
Biffle was widely recognized for his humanitarian efforts following Hurricane Helen, piloting helicopters to assist with relief missions and delivering critical supplies and communications equipment.
Fan Take: Greg Biffle’s tragic passing is a heartbreaking loss for the NASCAR community, reminding fans of the preciousness of life beyond the track. This news underscores the importance of safety and vigilance, not just in racing but in all aspects of life, while prompting the sport to come together in honoring a beloved competitor and humanitarian.
