RCR pit crew member Richardson dies at 37

Donald "D.J." Richardson, the rear-tire changer for the No. 29 Chevrolet, passed away shortly after 10 p.m. ET Friday. He was 37.

Richardson, a native of Leominster, Mass., was hospitalized with severe complications due to the H1N1 virus. He had contracted the virus during a visit to Massachusetts during the Thanksgiving holiday.

A news release by Richard Childress Racing on Dec. 7 stated that Richardson's condition worsened due to the onset of pneumonia before he went to Health Alliance Hospital in Leominster for evaluation last month. Doctors quickly admitted Richardson to the hospital's intensive care unit with acute respiratory distress syndrome.

"All of us at RCR are saddened by D.J.'s passing," Childress said Saturday in a team release. "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."

Richardson joined RCR in July 2009 and finished the Cup Series season as the rear-tire changer for Kevin Harvick's team. Richardson began his Cup Series career with Andy Petree Racing in 1999. He 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, director of human performance and leadership development of RCR.

"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."

Details of memorial services in Massachusetts and North Carolina are pending.