The extended family of Greg Biffle issued a statement after the NASCAR legend, his wife, Cristina, and his two kids, Emma and Ryder, were killed in a plane crash on Thursday, December 18.
“We are devastated by the loss of our loved ones,” the statement read.
The statement was issued by the Biffle family, in addition to Cristina’s extended family, the Grossus, the family of pilot Dennis Dutton, who was also on board the plane with his son, Jack, and the family of Greg’s first wife, Nicole Lunders, the mother of Ryder.
“This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words,” the families said. “Greg and Cristina were devoted parents and active philanthropists whose lives centered around their young son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma (mother – Nicole Lunders).”
The statement described 14-year-old Emma as “a wonderful human being with a kind soul who was loved by many people.”
Ryder was called “an active, curious and infinitely joyful child.”
Dennis Dutton and his son, Jack, were described as “deeply loved as well, and their loss is felt by all who knew them.”
Craig Wadsworth, who was “beloved by many in the NASCAR community,” was also on board the plane when it crashed shortly after 10 a.m. on Thursday at Statesville Regional Airport.
It is not known who was piloting the plane, which belonged to Greg, when it crashed.
“Each of them meant everything to us, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives” the statement continued. “We ask for privacy, compassion and understanding as we grieve and begin to process this unimaginable loss. We are grateful for the kindness and support that has been extended to our families during this incredibly difficult time.”
The statement concluded, “At this moment, our focus is on honoring their lives and supporting one another.”
Greg earned 19 wins during his NASCAR career, finishing in the top 10 in the NASCAR Cup standings six times. In 2023, he was named one of the 75 greatest NASCAR drivers of all time.
“The NASCAR family is devastated at the loss of Greg Biffle, who was one of our 75 greatest drivers and became known for his relentless post-career humanitarian work,” NASCAR said in a statement on Thursday. “We extend our deepest condolences.”
Greg and Cristina were also remembered by North Carolina congressman Richard Hudson shortly after their deaths.
“I am devastated by the loss of Greg, Cristina, and their children, and my heart is with all who loved them,” the politician, 54, wrote via X on Thursday. “They were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others. Greg was a great NASCAR champion who thrilled millions of fans. But he was an extraordinary person as well, and will be remembered for his service to others as much as for his fearlessness on the track.”
Hudson added, “The last time I spoke with Cristina, just a couple of weeks ago, she reached out to ask how she could help with relief efforts in Jamaica. That’s who the Biffles were. Our prayers are with their family, friends, and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss.”
