New details have emerged following the tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of NASCAR champion Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, their children, and three others, as Cristina’s mother shared her account of the final moments before the accident. Speaking to PEOPLE, Cathy Grossu revealed that she received a brief and distressing text message from her daughter shortly before the crash.
According to Cathy, Cristina sent the message while aboard the plane on Thursday, Dec. 18, writing only, “We’re in trouble.” That was the last communication she received. Cathy said the family is devastated and struggling to process the sudden loss of loved ones who meant everything to them. The crash resulted in seven fatalities: Greg Biffle, 55; Cristina; their five-year-old son Ryder; Greg’s 14-year-old daughter Emma, whom he shared with former wife Nicole Lunders; along with Dennis Dutton and his son Jack; and Craig Wadsworth.
The group was traveling to Florida for what was meant to be a joyful birthday trip, making the loss even harder for the family to comprehend. Cathy shared that just one day earlier, Greg and Cristina had been at her home, happy and focused on family. She also recalled one of her final conversations with Cristina, which centered on completing charitable holiday letters for families in need.
Cristina made sure they were finished and mailed before the trip, an act Cathy says reflected her daughter’s generous spirit. As investigations continue, family and friends are remembering lives filled with kindness, purpose, and care for others, while asking for privacy as they grieve.