A Cessna C550 Citation jet crashed shortly after 10 a.m. near Statesville Regional Airport, approximately 72 kilometers north of Charlotte. The impact occurred at the end of a runway, quickly erupting into a massive blaze that drew multiple emergency response teams.
Airport Director John Ferguson described arriving to a scene of complete engulfment. The Federal Aviation Administration swiftly took control of the investigation, closing the airport indefinitely while crews work to clear the wreckage.
Initial data suggests a harrowing sequence of events. The aircraft took off from Statesville, then almost immediately initiated a return for landing. This attempt ended in disaster, the plane crashing back onto airport grounds.
Reports indicate the pilot communicated engine trouble shortly after liftoff, prompting the urgent decision to return to Statesville. The situation unfolded rapidly, leaving little time for maneuvering.
Nearby golfers at Lakewood Golf Club witnessed the terrifying event firsthand. One golfer recounted the plane flying “way too low,” describing the experience as profoundly frightening, with debris scattering across the ninth hole.
The aircraft was piloted by Greg Biffle, a celebrated NASCAR driver who retired in 2022. Biffle amassed 19 Cup Series victories over a distinguished 20-year career and was recognized as one of NASCAR’s 75 greatest drivers.
Beyond his racing achievements, Biffle was known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly through his Greg Biffle Foundation, which focused on animal welfare. He also demonstrated a commitment to disaster relief, utilizing his piloting skills to deliver supplies after Hurricane Helene in 2024.
Those who knew Biffle remember him not only as a champion on the track but as a dedicated humanitarian. He and his wife were described as individuals deeply committed to serving others, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond the world of motorsports.
The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA are currently conducting a thorough investigation to determine the precise cause of the crash. The focus will be on understanding the engine trouble and the circumstances surrounding the attempted emergency landing.
The Statesville Regional Airport, a facility catering to corporate aviation and several NASCAR teams, remains closed as investigators meticulously examine the crash site. The process of removing debris and assessing the damage is expected to take considerable time.
