NASCAR Driver Greg Biffle, Wife Cristina, and Two Children Killed in Tragic Plane Crash

The NASCAR community is mourning an unimaginable loss following the deaths of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina Gusso, and their two children in a private plane crash in Statesville, North Carolina, on December 18.

Biffle, a former NASCAR star widely known as “The Biff,” was 55 years old. Also killed in the crash were his wife Cristina, their 5-year-old son Ryder, and 14-year-old daughter Emma, whom Biffle shared with his former wife Nicole Lunders. Two additional individuals were also on board the aircraft.

Crash Details and Ongoing Investigation

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the crash to local outlet WCNC Charlotte, reporting that the aircraft involved was a Cessna C550, owned by GB Aviation Leasing LLC and under contract with Biffle.

According to the Charlotte Observer, Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell said the sheriff’s office, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, and the FAA responded to the scene and are actively processing the investigation.

While the cause of the crash has not yet been determined, weather conditions at the time were described as unfavorable.

AccuWeather Vice President of Forecasting Operations Dan DePodwin told the Observer that the area experienced heavy drizzle and low cloud ceilings, with visibility dropping below two miles shortly before the crash.

“Weather conditions are often a critical factor that investigators carefully review after a plane crash,” DePodwin explained, noting that it may take months or longer to determine whether weather contributed.

Tributes Pour In for a NASCAR Champion and Humanitarian

U.S. Congressman Richard Hudson confirmed the family’s passing in a statement shared on X, honoring both Biffle’s racing legacy and his character off the track.

“Greg was a great NASCAR champion who thrilled millions of fans,” Hudson wrote. “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.”

A Hall-of-Fame Career on the Track

Greg Biffle began his NASCAR career in 1995, rising through the Winter Heat Series, the Truck Series, and eventually the Cup Series in the early 2000s.

His accomplishments include:

• Championships in both the Busch Series and Craftsman Truck Series

• Rookie of the Year honors twice

• 19 Cup Series victories

• Recognition as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023

• Nomination to the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2024

His competitive drive, consistency, and fearless racing style made him one of the most respected drivers of his era.

A Legacy Beyond Racing

While Biffle’s on-track achievements were historic, many say his humanitarian efforts were equally impactful.

Following Hurricane Helene in September 2024, Biffle joined relief efforts as a helicopter pilot, transporting supplies and rescuing stranded individuals throughout the Southeast.

“The feeling you get when you win a race,” Biffle once said, “that’s the same feeling you get when you’re able to help people in need.”

Darlington Raceway President Josh Harris praised Biffle’s generosity, calling him “a winner off the track” who consistently gave back to his community.

Congressman Hudson also noted that Biffle and his wife Cristina were still actively involved in humanitarian work just weeks before their deaths.

“Cristina reached out asking how she could help with relief efforts in Jamaica,” he shared. “That’s who the Biffles were.”

A Devoted Family Man

Above all, Greg Biffle was a father and husband who cherished time with his family.

He shared his love of racing with his children, celebrated life’s milestones with them, and embraced simple moments — from fishing trips with Ryder to a heartfelt father-daughter dance with Emma.

Cristina and Greg were often seen celebrating each other, sharing quiet date nights, family achievements, and proud moments together, including his induction into the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame, where his family stood by his side.

Remembering the Biffle Family

As investigators continue to examine the circumstances of the crash, the racing world and beyond are united in grief — remembering not just a NASCAR legend, but a family defined by love, generosity, and service to others.

Greg Biffle’s impact will live on through his racing legacy, his humanitarian spirit, and the countless lives he touched on and off the track.