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

A shocking aviation disaster has rocked the motorsports world as a Citation II private jet carrying NASCAR veteran Greg Biffle, his family, and three additional passengers crashed near Statesville, North Carolina, killing all seven onboard.

Over the past 24 hours, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has held two urgent media briefings, providing critical updates and correcting widespread misinformation circulating in the media.

The tragedy has left the racing community, local residents, and aviation enthusiasts in profound shock.

The crash occurred on the morning of December 20, 2025, when the Citation II jet departed on a private flight from a regional airport near Charlotte.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing the aircraft struggling to maintain altitude over the Statesville area just minutes before the crash.

One local resident recounted, “It was wobbling in the air, then suddenly it went down; it was terrifying.

” Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, but tragically, all seven occupants, including members of Biffle’s immediate family, were pronounced dead.

Authorities have withheld the identities of the victims pending notification of relatives.

In a highly anticipated briefing, the NTSB confirmed that a text message had been sent from the aircraft prior to the crash, though officials made it clear that the content of the message remains undisclosed.

“We are aware of a communication from the plane, but contrary to what some media outlets have reported, the details of that message are part of an ongoing investigation and cannot be confirmed at this time,” stated an NTSB spokesperson.

This clarification aimed to correct speculative reporting from outlets such as TMZ and other online platforms.

Investigators emphasized that the investigation is in its early stages, with technical teams meticulously analyzing flight data recorders, maintenance logs, and cockpit communications.

The NTSB is also evaluating weather conditions, the aircraft’s maintenance history, and pilot performance to determine if mechanical failure, human error, or environmental factors contributed to the crash.

“Our goal is to reconstruct the sequence of events accurately to prevent similar tragedies in the future,” the spokesperson said.

Greg Biffle, a celebrated NASCAR driver known for his success on the track and his dedication to charitable causes off it, has been deeply affected by the loss.

The crash has elicited an outpouring of grief and support from fans, fellow drivers, and the motorsports community worldwide.

Social media platforms are flooded with tributes, memories, and messages of condolence, reflecting the widespread impact of the tragedy beyond just the racing community.

Officials addressed rumors and speculation surrounding the circumstances of the crash, particularly regarding the text message allegedly sent from the plane.

“At this point, it is important to rely on verified facts rather than conjecture,” the NTSB spokesperson emphasized.

While the message raises questions, investigators caution against drawing conclusions until the technical and forensic analysis of the aircraft is complete.

Preliminary findings suggest that the aircraft may have experienced mechanical or operational challenges, but investigators stress that no definitive conclusions have been made.

Radar data, eyewitness accounts, and recovered flight data recorders are being analyzed to understand the moments leading up to the crash.

Each detail is being carefully examined to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the incident.

The tragedy has reignited broader conversations about private aviation safety, pilot certification, and aircraft maintenance protocols.

Aviation experts note that while private jets offer convenience and speed, they also demand rigorous adherence to maintenance schedules, operational procedures, and safety standards.

The NTSB’s investigation will not only aim to determine the cause of this accident but also provide recommendations to enhance safety and prevent similar incidents in the future.

Communities both locally in Statesville and across the motorsports world are grappling with the emotional impact of the crash.

Memorials and tributes have appeared at racetracks, local churches, and online, highlighting both personal loss and public mourning.

The NTSB has pledged to release updates as soon as new verified information becomes available.

The crash of the Citation II jet serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life, even for those accustomed to high-speed, high-risk environments like professional racing.

As investigators work tirelessly to piece together the full story, the nation watches and waits, hoping that lessons learned from this tragedy can prevent future losses and honor the memory of those who perished.