The NTSB confirms that a private Citation II jet carrying Greg Biffle, his family, and three others crashed in Statesville, North Carolina, killing all seven onboard, as investigators work to clarify causes amid text message reports and widespread media speculation, leaving the racing community and public in shock.

Authorities and aviation investigators are continuing to examine the tragic plane crash that claimed seven lives, including that of NASCAR veteran Greg Biffle’s family members, near Statesville, North Carolina.

In a series of media briefings held over the past 24 hours, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) provided new details about the Citation II crash, clarifying several points that had been circulating in the media and addressing speculation about the circumstances surrounding the accident.

The crash occurred earlier this week when a Citation II private jet carrying Greg Biffle, his family, and three additional passengers went down under circumstances still under investigation.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the racing community and the aviation world, as Biffle, a well-known figure in NASCAR, has been admired for decades not only for his racing prowess but also for his off-track presence and family-oriented public persona.

During the first NTSB briefing, officials confirmed that a text message was sent from the aircraft prior to the crash, though the content of the message has not been disclosed.

“We are aware of a communication from the plane, but contrary to multiple media reports, the details remain under investigation,” an NTSB spokesperson explained.

The clarification was aimed at correcting earlier reports by outlets such as TMZ and other media sources, which had speculated on the nature and tone of the message.

Investigators emphasized that no conclusions should be drawn until the full technical analysis of the plane’s systems, flight data, and cockpit communications is completed.

The second briefing, held less than 24 hours later, addressed questions from reporters regarding the sequence of events leading to the crash.

Officials noted that the aircraft, a Citation II, departed on a routine flight but experienced difficulties before the accident.

While investigators are still piecing together the exact chain of events, preliminary evidence suggests that mechanical or operational issues may have played a role.

“Our focus is on understanding every element of this tragic accident, from maintenance history to pilot actions,” the spokesperson stated, underscoring the meticulous nature of NTSB investigations.

Eyewitnesses in the Statesville area reported seeing the aircraft in distress moments before the crash, with one local resident recounting, “It looked like it was struggling to maintain altitude, and then suddenly it went down.

” Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, but unfortunately, all seven occupants were pronounced dead at the site.

Authorities are working to ensure that families affected by the tragedy receive support, and a local crisis center has been established to provide assistance.

Biffle, who retired from full-time racing several years ago, is known not only for his racing achievements but also for his dedication to charitable work and community engagement.

The loss of his family members in such a sudden and devastating manner has reverberated throughout the NASCAR community, with fellow drivers and fans offering condolences and support on social media.

“We are all deeply saddened by this unimaginable tragedy,” one fellow driver posted, reflecting the shared grief and shock within the motorsports world.

In addition to addressing the text message and clarifying media inaccuracies, the NTSB also provided information on the ongoing technical investigation.

Flight recorders from the Citation II have been recovered, and teams of investigators are analyzing the data to determine whether mechanical failure, human error, or environmental conditions contributed to the crash.

Officials emphasized that investigations of this magnitude can take months to reach definitive conclusions, as each element of the aircraft and flight history is carefully examined.

The tragic incident has reignited conversations about private aviation safety, pilot training, and aircraft maintenance protocols, particularly in light of high-profile accidents involving celebrity figures.

Aviation experts note that while private jets are generally safe, rigorous attention to maintenance schedules, pilot certification, and operational procedures remains critical to preventing accidents.

The NTSB’s ongoing investigation aims to not only determine the causes of the Biffle crash but also provide recommendations to improve safety in the industry.

As the investigation continues, communities both locally in North Carolina and across the NASCAR world are grappling with the profound loss.

Memorials and tributes to the victims are appearing at racetracks, local churches, and online, reflecting both personal grief and public mourning.

Authorities continue to request that speculation be minimized while the official investigation progresses.

The NTSB has assured the public that updates will continue as new information becomes available.

Investigators are working around the clock to piece together the circumstances surrounding the Citation II crash, with the hope that understanding the causes will prevent future tragedies.

For now, the crash serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of aviation and the devastating consequences of accidents, even for those accustomed to high-speed, high-stakes environments like professional racing.