A chilling scene unfolded at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina as a small business jet erupted in flames upon impact. The crash, occurring around 10:15 local time, sent a plume of thick, black smoke billowing into the sky, visible for miles around.
Initial reports indicate multiple fatalities, though the exact number of people on board and their identities remain unconfirmed. The aircraft, identified as a Cessna C550, is capable of carrying up to eight passengers and was reportedly attempting to land when the incident occurred.
Records suggest the plane, registered with tail number N257BW, is owned by Greg Biffle, a celebrated NASCAR driver. Biffle, a veteran of over 500 NASCAR cup starts with 19 wins, is also a licensed pilot known for his philanthropic efforts.
Eyewitness accounts describe the jet flying “way too low” before the devastating crash. The Federal Aviation Administration is currently investigating the cause, while Statesville Regional Airport has confirmed the incident and is cooperating with authorities.
The Statesville area, located approximately 40 miles north of Charlotte, is a hub for NASCAR racing, adding a somber layer to the tragedy. Weather conditions at the time of the crash were challenging, with rain and low visibility, though a connection to the accident hasn’t been established.
This incident adds to a troubling pattern of aviation accidents this year. Just days prior, ten lives were lost in a private jet crash near Mexico City, and a collision near Denver in September claimed two more.
Greg Biffle has a history of stepping up during times of crisis. He previously coordinated aid efforts for victims of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, utilizing both sea and air transport, and delivered support to those stranded during Hurricane Helena with a helicopter.
Emergency services are still working to extinguish the flames and secure the crash site. The investigation is expected to be thorough and complex, seeking to understand the sequence of events that led to this tragic outcome.
