A private business jet crash in North Carolina on Thursday killed all seven people aboard, including retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family, authorities confirmed.
“There was a total of seven on board, all killed,” Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell told AFP.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol reported that the jet, a Cessna Citation C550, had just taken off from Statesville Airport, north of Charlotte, when it attempted to return before crashing. Weather conditions, including drizzle and a low cloud ceiling, may have contributed, local media reported.
NASCAR confirmed Biffle’s death, saying, “The NASCAR family is devastated at the loss of Greg Biffle, one of our 75 greatest drivers and known for his relentless post-career humanitarian work. We extend our deepest condolences.”
Among the victims were Biffle’s wife, Cristina Grossu Biffle, and their two children, according to Republican Representative Richard Hudson, a family friend. “I am devastated by the loss of Greg, Cristina, and their children, and my heart is with all who loved them. They were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others,” Hudson posted on social media.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) announced it is sending a team to investigate the crash. “The team expects to arrive on scene tonight,” the agency said.
Source: AFP
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
