New details have been released in the fatal plane crash connected to NASCAR veteran Greg Biffle, as an autopsy report confirmed how the pilot died while the broader investigation into the incident continues.
According to findings from North Carolina’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, pilot Dennis Rollin Dutton died from smoke inhalation and thermal injuries following the crash of a Cessna C550 in late 2025. The accident occurred near Statesville Regional Airport and claimed multiple lives, including individuals close to Biffle.
While the autopsy provides clarity on the cause of death, key questions surrounding the crash — including who was piloting the aircraft at the time — remain unresolved.
Autopsy Confirms Pilot’s Cause of Death
The autopsy report, released April 8, determined that Dutton’s death was caused by smoke inhalation and thermal injuries sustained in the crash and resulting fire.
Dutton was one of several victims in the incident, which also claimed the lives of Biffle’s longtime girlfriend, her young son, and the couple’s daughter. A family friend was also among those killed.
The aircraft went down shortly after takeoff, with initial reports indicating it attempted to return to Statesville Regional Airport before crashing less than a mile from the runway.
Uncertainty Remains Around Who Was Flying
Despite the new findings, one of the most significant unanswered questions remains who was piloting the aircraft at the time of the crash.
Investigators have previously indicated uncertainty on that point. Early findings suggested that more than one person on board may have had some level of flight experience, complicating efforts to determine who was in control in the aircraft’s final moments.
A preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) noted that an experienced pilot was believed to be on board, but the individual seated in the right seat was not qualified to serve as a co-pilot.
That detail underscores the uncertainty investigators are still working through as they continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Crash Occurred Shortly After Takeoff
According to prior reporting, the Cessna C550 was en route to Florida when it encountered issues shortly after departure.
The aircraft attempted to return to Statesville Regional Airport but crashed before reaching the runway. The impact resulted in a significant fire, which investigators believe contributed to the fatal injuries outlined in the autopsy report.
The plane was registered to a company tied to Biffle.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
As of April 9, the NTSB has not issued a final determination on the cause of the crash.
Investigators continue to review multiple factors, including weather conditions, aircraft performance, and the actions taken in the moments leading up to the incident.
While the autopsy answers one question, the broader investigation remains active as officials work toward a clearer understanding of what led to the crash.
A Tragic Loss With Lasting Impact
The crash drew widespread attention not only because of Biffle’s status as a longtime NASCAR Cup Series driver, but because of the profound personal loss involved.
As investigators continue their work, the latest findings serve as a reminder of the lives lost and the ongoing effort to understand how the tragedy unfolded.
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