Former Nascar pilot Greg Biffle, his wife, two children and three other passengers died in a small plane crash on Thursday. As the Nascar series confirmed, the 55-year-old’s private jet burst into flames shortly after takeoff from Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina.
“Greg was more than just a successful racer. He was a beloved member of the Nascar community, a fierce competitor and a friend to so many,” the racing series said in a statement on social media: “His passion for racing, his integrity and his commitment to fans and fellow competitors have left a lasting impact on the sport.”
Biffle was runner-up in the top Nascar league in 2005. In total he drove 515 races in the Nascar Cup Series (19 wins). He contested his last race in 2022.
“Even outside of his racing career, he worked tirelessly for the well-being of our community,” explained Nascar: “In particular, Greg spent countless hours helping the citizens of North Carolina after Hurricane Helene. His tireless efforts saved lives.”