RCR crew member Richardson dead at 37
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Sam Greenwood
Getty Images for NASCAR
By Sporting News NASCAR Wire Service
Richard Childress Racing pit crew member Donald “D.J.” Richardson, who was stricken with the H1N1 virus over the Thanksgiving holiday, died Friday night of complications from the illness, according to a team release.
Richardson, 37, of Leominster, Mass., joined RCR in July 2009 and finished the Sprint Cup Series season as the rear-tire changer for the No. 29 team with driver Kevin Harvick. He contracted the swine-flu virus during a visit to Massachusetts over the Thanksgiving holiday, according to an RCR news release from earlier this month.
“All of us at RCR are saddened by D.J.’s passing,” said Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. “D.J. was a gifted tire changer, one of the greatest team players in the business and a valued member of the RCR family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.”
His condition worsened because of the onset of pneumonia before he went to Health Alliance Hospital in Leominster for evaluation. Doctors quickly admitted Richardson to the hospital’s intensive care unit with acute respiratory distress syndrome. He remained in the hospital until his death.
Richardson began his Sprint Cup Series career with Andy Petree Racing in 1999. He has also worked for Penske Racing, Hendrick Motorsports and Braun Racing.
“I am shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of our friend and teammate,” said Matt Clark, RCR director of human performance and leadership development. “Anyone who knew D.J. realized that below the tough exterior was a caring father, friend and teammate. He had a huge heart and would do anything to help someone in need. D.J. loved changing tires and was recognized as one of the top pit athletes at the position. I want to extend my condolences to his family and friends.”
