Thousands of loved ones and community members gathered Friday morning to honor NASCAR legend Greg Biffle, his family and three other people killed in a Statesville plane crash on Dec. 18.
READ MORE >> Public memorial details announced for NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, plane crash victims
The tributes began outside the Bojangles Coliseum where several cars and trucks Biffle drove throughout his career were parked outside. Many people arrived hours ahead of time to ensure they got a seat.
Biffle, wife Cristina, daughter Emma and son Ryder, as well as Dennis Dutton, his son, Jack, and Craig Wadsworth were on the plane that crashed in Statesville.
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Biffle is known for his many racing achievements, from wins to championships, but many people remember him for what he did off the track. Most recently, he helped with recovery and relief efforts in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene devastated the area.
For fans who are unable to attend in person, NASCAR is livestreaming the ceremony here.
A separate tribute is planned to honor Biffle’s life and legacy Friday afternoon in downtown Mooresville. The memorial is set to begin at 3 p.m.
Racing enthusiast Cleetus McFarland will perform a tribute burnout near Biffle’s NC Auto Racing Walk of Fame star. There, fans can also view a special collection of Biffle’s racing memorabilia.
Inside, Channel 9’s Eli Brand heard from several friends and family of the victims. Tune in to Eyewitness News at 5 p.m. for full coverage of the service.
VIDEO: ‘Amplifies the grief’: Close-knit community mourns for victims in Greg Biffle’s plane crash
