Former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and six others died in a December plane crash, and investigators later released surveillance footage after his Mooresville home was burglarized; the family issued a statement, community members reacted, and law enforcement is seeking tips.
On December 18, former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle died in a plane crash at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina. The crash also claimed the lives of his wife, Cristina, his son Ryder, and daughter Emma, along with Dennis Dutton, Dutton’s son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth. The loss stunned fans and neighbors alike and set off a sequence of events no one expected.
“We are devastated by the loss of our loved ones. This tragedy has left all of our families heartbroken beyond words,” said the families in a statement. “Each of them meant everything to us, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives.
We ask for privacy, compassion and understanding as we grieve and begin to process this unimaginable loss. We are grateful for the kindness and support that has been extended to our families during this incredibly difficult time. At this moment, our focus is on honoring their lives and supporting one another.”
Weeks after the crash, Biffle’s Mooresville home was targeted in a break-in, and investigators report the thief stole approximately $30,000 in cash and several pieces of NASCAR memorabilia. Iredell County deputies later confirmed the theft included firearms in addition to the cash and collectible items. The burglary added a bitter twist to an already painful story for family and friends.
Local community members publicly condemned the theft and pushed for accountability after hearing the details. Van Swol, a local voice in the area, captured the anger when he described Biffle’s past efforts to help neighbors during emergencies and called the theft “beyond despicable.” His direct appeal put pressure on authorities and kept the case in the public eye.
“Greg Biffle was a hero during Hurricane Helene, flying his own personal helicopter to rescue victims and drop off supplies to those stranded here in the mountains,” Van Swol wrote. “It is beyond despicable that someone would break into his home after his death and steal from him. Please make this person famous, maybe someone will recognize this awful human being and they can make an arrest.”
Van Swol later said he received a tip that he passed along to the police, and that information helped move the investigation forward. Iredell County deputies responded to the reported break-in on Doolie Road in Mooresville and collected surveillance material that they later released to the public. The footage is intended to jog memories and generate leads.
Iredell County deputies released surveillance video Wednesday that shows the suspect in a burglary at the home of former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, just weeks after the racing legend and six other people died in a plane crash in Statesville.
The Iredell County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported break-in at Biffle’s home on Doolie Road in Mooresville on Jan. 8. The break-in happened overnight, according to investigators. Two Glock handguns, $30,000 in cash and NASCAR memorabilia were reported stolen.
Surveillance video released by the sheriff’s office shows a person arriving at the home around 11 p.m. on Jan. 7 and spending an extended amount of time inside. The suspect is seen wearing a hooded sweatshirt, mask and jeans.
Biffle was well known in the region not just for racing but for pitching in during disasters, including efforts during Hurricane Helene when he helped with rescues and clean-up. His neighbors remember him as someone who used his skills and equipment to aid people in need. Those memories sharpened the community’s outrage when the burglary came to light.
A public memorial service for Greg, Cristina, Emma, Ryder, as well as Dennis and Jack Dutton and Craig Wadsworth was held on January 16 at the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte, North Carolina. The event drew friends, family, and members of the racing community to pay respects and mark the loss. It was an occasion focused on honoring their lives and sharing memories.
Investigators say the suspect was caught on surveillance arriving late the night of January 7 and spending an extended time in the home, then leaving with items of clear personal and emotional value. Authorities are reviewing video, following leads, and asking anyone with information to come forward. Anyone who has information about the robbery should contact Iredell County law enforcement.
