Newly Released Autopsies Reveal Details in Deadly Statesville Plane Crash

Newly released autopsy reports and a preliminary federal investigation are providing additional insight into the Dec. 18, 2025, plane crash at Statesville Regional Airport that killed seven people.

As first reported by WCAB News sister station WAME, also owned by Signal Hill Media Partners and based in Statesville, the airplane went down shortly after takeoff.

Records obtained through a public records request include autopsy and medical examiner reports for Dennis Dutton and his son, Jack Dutton. Authorities say Dennis is believed to have been piloting the aircraft at the time of the crash.

Among those killed were retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, and their children Ryder and Emma, along with Craig Wadsworth, a longtime NASCAR industry veteran.

Cristina's mother said she received an 'emergency landing' text from her.

Officials with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services said reports involving minor victims were not released in accordance with state law. Autopsy reports for Greg and Cristina Biffle and Wadsworth have not been released; it is unclear why.

According to the medical examiner’s findings, Dennis Dutton died from injuries and smoke inhalation sustained from the crash. The report said, “There are no concerns for foul play; however, the investigation remains ongoing."

Family members told investigators that Dutton was a retired commercial pilot with years of experience.

A preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) indicates the aircraft — a 1981 model registered to Greg Biffle's GB Aviation Leasing LLC — departed around 10:05 a.m.

Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft appeared to attempt a return to the airport.

Investigators say flight data shows the plane made an initial left turn west, followed by another turn back toward the airport. About five minutes after takeoff, it entered the traffic pattern for the runway.

The aircraft first struck a runway light stanchion approximately 1,800 feet from the runway threshold. It then hit trees, additional runway lighting structures, and a perimeter fence before coming to rest near the runway.

A post-impact fire consumed much of the fuselage and portions of the wings.

The NTSB reported that visual flight conditions were present, though the weather included drizzle and low cloud ceilings between 1,000 and 2,000 feet. Visibility was about five miles with calm winds.

All major components of the aircraft, including both engines and flight control surfaces, were accounted for in the wreckage, according to investigators.

First responders initially faced challenges identifying victims due to the intensity of the fire, officials said at the time.

The NTSB’s preliminary findings do not determine a cause of the crash. A final report — which will include probable cause and contributing factors — is expected within 12 to 18 months.