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Pilot's Son at Controls in Deadly NASCAR Star Crash
31 Jan
Summary
- NASCAR champion Greg Biffle died in a Dec. 2025 plane crash.
- An off-duty pilot's son, not fully qualified, was flying.
- Instrument malfunctions preceded the fatal Statesville crash.
A new report details the events leading up to the fatal plane crash on December 18, 2025, which claimed the lives of NASCAR champion Greg Biffle and six other passengers. The National Transportation Safety Board's preliminary report identified Dennis Dutton as the pilot and his son, Jack Dutton, as the co-pilot. While Dennis Dutton was qualified, his son Jack was not certified for second-in-command duties.
The aircraft, a Cessna C550, experienced issues with its altimeter and other instruments shortly after takeoff from Statesville Regional Airport. Despite these malfunctions, the pilots attempted to return for landing. The plane ultimately crashed less than ten minutes after departure.
Investigators found no evidence of engine failure. Both engines remained attached, and thrust reversers were stowed. The aircraft was not equipped with a flight data recorder, which was not a regulatory requirement.
Greg Biffle, a celebrated NASCAR driver with 19 Cup Series wins and a championship, was also known for his humanitarian efforts. He received the Myers Brothers Award for delivering essential goods via helicopter after Hurricane Helene devastated parts of North Carolina in 2024.
