A small private jet crashed near Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina around 10:30 a.m. Tuesday. Early reports suggest the aircraft went down during an attempted landing, though initial radio traffic indicated it may have crashed shortly after takeoff.

The Cessna 550 Citation II is registered to a company owned by NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, drawing national attention. Authorities have confirmed six people were aboard, with five fatalities, though they have not yet officially released the identities of those on board.

It is believed that Biffle, his wife Cristina Grossu, and their two children, Emma and Ryder, were among the passengers, but officials are awaiting next-of-kin notification before confirming details. The sixth occupant’s condition has not been disclosed.

Emergency crews responded immediately, securing the crash site. Firefighters, law enforcement, and medical personnel worked at the scene as investigators began examining the wreckage and gathering evidence.

The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are leading the investigation to determine whether mechanical failure, weather, pilot error, or other factors caused the crash. Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation as details emerge.

News of the crash has sent shockwaves through the motorsports community. Fans, colleagues, and local residents are mourning, while authorities continue to assess the situation and provide updates as the investigation unfolds.