Retired NASCAR star Greg Biffle, along with his wife, Cristina, and their two children—Emma (14) and Ryder (5)—was among seven people killed in a private jet crash in Statesville, North Carolina, officials confirmed. The Cessna 550 business jet, bound for Florida, crashed near the Statesville Regional Airport while attempting to return shortly after takeoff, bursting into flames upon impact.

Also killed were family friends Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth. The FAA and NTSB have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. Biffle, 55, was celebrated as one of NASCAR’s most accomplished drivers, with wins across the Cup, Xfinity, and Truck Series, and was known for his generous humanitarian work in North Carolina, especially after Hurricane Helene. NASCAR and fans worldwide have expressed deep condolences and grief over the tragic loss.