The private aircraft that was scheduled to carry NASCAR veteran Greg Biffle and his 12‑year‑old daughter Emma went down on December 18, 2025, shortly after a take‑off attempt from Statesville, North Carolina. All seven occupants, including pilot Dennis Dutton and several family members such as Jack Dutton, Craig Wadsworth, Margaret Dutton, Jordyn Biffle Carpenter and Ryder Biffle, were killed when the plane struck nearby light stations and ignited a fire.
Nicole Biffle, the ex‑wife of the late driver, has now filed a wrongful‑death suit against the estates of Greg Biffle, pilot Dennis Dutton and the leasing company GB Aviation Leasing. The complaint alleges that the defendants were negligent before the aircraft began to taxi, specifically citing the failure to activate an Instrument Flight Rules flight plan and the departure without clearance from air‑traffic control.
In a separate move, the estate of Dennis Dutton has sued the Biffle estate for $15 million, while the estate of Emma Biffle is pursuing a $10 million claim against the estate of Dennis Dutton. Both actions also reference the broader group of relatives, including Jack Dutton, Craig Wadsworth, Margaret Dutton, Jordyn Biffle Carpenter and Ryder Biffle, whose deaths have been cited in the multi‑million dollar claims.
Investigation Findings
A preliminary report released by the National Transportation Safety Board highlighted a cascade of technical problems on the day of the accident, including a faulty altitude indicator and other malfunctioning flight instruments. Adverse weather conditions and the pilot’s decision to fly without proper clearance have also been identified as contributing factors.
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are continuing their investigations, promising a thorough review of the aircraft’s maintenance records and operational procedures. The incident has reignited discussions within the NASCAR community about safety standards for private travel and the responsibilities of aircraft operators.
While the legal battles unfold, the families of those lost are left to navigate grief and the pursuit of accountability, hoping that the investigations will bring clarity and prevent similar tragedies in the future.