Authorities in North Carolina are investigating a disturbing burglary at the home of the late NASCAR champion Greg Biffle, which occurred just weeks after he and his family tragically died in a plane crash.
Investigation into Forcible Entry and Theft
According to an incident report from the Iredell County Sheriff's Office, the alleged break-in and theft at Biffle's Mooresville residence was reported on January 8. Sheriff Darren Campbell stated that investigators believe someone entered a safe inside the property.
The home was last known to be secure on the afternoon of January 7. Campbell confirmed that no one else was present in the home at the time of the alleged crimes, and that no arrests have been made so far.
Significant Cash and Personal Items Taken
The stolen items listed in the report include a substantial amount of cash, specifically US$30,000 (approximately A$45,000), and a backpack. Sheriff Campbell also revealed that several guns and personal memorabilia belonging to the retired racing driver were taken.
"We're working the case. We are waiting on some digital evidence," Campbell said, noting that interviews are being conducted as part of the active investigation.
Tragic Backstory: The Fatal Plane Crash
The burglary adds a further layer of tragedy to the story of Greg Biffle's passing. The retired driver, his wife, his two children, and three others died in a plane crash on December 18.
The Cessna C550 business jet crashed while attempting to return to an airport in Statesville, located about 72 kilometres north of Charlotte, minutes after takeoff. Federal investigators reported the aircraft erupted into a large fire upon impact short of the runway.
Biffle, who won 19 NASCAR Cup Series races in his storied career, was one of three people on board with a pilot's license. Investigators have not yet determined who was acting as the lead pilot during the flight, and no cause for the crash has been released.
Community Mourning and Memorial
A public memorial service for Biffle and the six others who lost their lives in the crash is scheduled for Friday morning at a Charlotte arena. The burglary of his home during this period of mourning has been met with shock and sadness by the local and sporting community.
The Iredell County Sheriff's Office continues its investigation into the break-in, seeking to identify and apprehend those responsible for targeting the property of the late motorsport legend.
