NASCAR star Greg Biffle has died along with his family in a devastating plane crash in Statesville, North Carolina. Mr Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder, along with two others aboard the Cessna C550 he owned.

The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff amid foggy conditions, prompting an ongoing investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board as tributes poured in from the racing community for the beloved driver and philanthropist. The former NASCAR champion, born Gregory Jack Biffle in Vancouver, Washington, on December 23, 1969, rose to prominence as one of the sport's most versatile drivers.

Born Gregory Jack Biffle in Vancouver, Washington, on December 23, 1969, the 55-year-old rose to prominence as one of the sport's most versatile drivers.

Nicknamed "The Biff," he achieved a rare feat by winning championships in both the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (2000) and the Xfinity Series (2002) before excelling in the Cup Series with Roush Fenway Racing.

Over his career, Mr Biffle secured 19 Cup victories, including prestigious races like the Southern 500 at Darlington, and finished runner-up in the 2005 championship standings.

He was a perennial playoff contender, earning six top-10 points finishes and recognition as one of NASCAR's 75 Greatest Drivers.

Beyond the track, Mr Biffle was an avid pilot and philanthropist. He held a private pilot's licence and often used his aircraft for personal travel.

In recent years, he gained admiration for his humanitarian efforts, flying his helicopter to deliver essential supplies and restore communications in areas devastated by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina.

Mr Biffle was married to Cristina Grossu, with whom he shared a young son, Ryder, and he had a daughter, Emma, from a previous marriage.

The Cessna C550 business jet, registered to Mr Biffle's GB Aviation Leasing, is believed to have taken off from Statesville Regional Airport shortly before attempting an emergency return landing around 10.20am amid foggy conditions.

Witnesses reported a massive explosion upon impact. Authorities confirmed six fatalities, including Mr Biffle, his wife, children, and others aboard.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause, with tributes pouring in from the racing community for a driver remembered as much for his fearlessness on the track as his generosity off it.

In a Facebook post, Garrett Mitchell (also known as YouTuber Cleetus McFarland), said: "Unfortunately, I can confirm Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma and son Ryder were on that plane...because they were on their way to spend the afternoon with us. We are devastated. I'm so sorry to share this."