Statesville, North Carolina — A tragic plane crash early Thursday morning at Statesville Regional Airport resulted in multiple fatalities, igniting a significant fire on the runway, according to local officials. The aircraft, a Cessna C550, was registered to GB Aviation Leasing, matching the address of former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that six individuals were aboard the plane at the time of the incident. The identities of the passengers have not yet been disclosed. Biffle, a licensed pilot, has a history of providing assistance during crises, having utilized his helicopter flying skills to help victims of severe flooding in North Carolina last year.
Local authorities confirmed the crash occurred around 10 a.m. A spokesperson for the airport mentioned experiencing an “aircraft incident,” leading to immediate emergency responses. Tracking data indicated the plane had taken off from the airport just minutes prior to the crash, before reportedly attempting to return.
State and local officials are investigating the cause, while Ron Smith, Statesville’s city manager, acknowledged the incident during a press briefing, noting the sensitivity surrounding the fatalities. Airport manager John Ferguson stated that the FAA is now managing the crash site to determine further details.
The airport serves various corporate and aviation needs, accommodating several Fortune 500 companies and NASCAR teams. The facility remains closed until further notice as investigators examine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
As the community grapples with the tragedy, additional information about the victims and the specific causes of the crash will likely come to light in the days ahead.