Overview
- Authorities confirmed seven fatalities after a Cessna C550 crashed while attempting to land at Statesville Regional Airport shortly after 10 a.m.
- The aircraft was registered to GB Aviation Leasing LLC, a company affiliated with Biffle, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
- Flight data show the jet departed Statesville, turned back within minutes, and crashed around 10:15–10:20 a.m., with witnesses reporting a fireball and debris reaching a nearby golf course.
- Victims were identified in family and NASCAR statements as Greg Biffle, wife Cristina, children Emma and Ryder, Craig Wadsworth, and Dennis and Jack Dutton.
- The NTSB is leading the investigation with FAA support, the airport remains temporarily closed for cleanup, and officials have not determined a cause as weather and flight information are reviewed.