The two Rick Ware Racing team members Dean Shaut and Stephen Masch were riding in Dean Shaut's personal vehicle during the late evening hours on Friday March 11, 2011. The two men were on their own personal time when the accident happened. Dean Shaut, the driver, apparently approached a turn on Ball Park Road in Thomasville, NC and clipped a telephone pole, hitting a tree which sent the vehicle overturning several times before coming to a rest. The driver, Dean Shaut 44, was pronounced dead at the scene and Stephen Masch 29, has been transported to Wake Forest Trauma Center where he currently undergoing extensive surgery to relieve pressure on the spine.
"He is in surgery today with a spinal cord injury to his C5 vertebrae. He is aware of his surroundings and that his Mom and Sister are at the hospital. However, with being incubated and sedated he is unable to communicate and we are unaware of the extent of his injuries other than what appears to be paralysis of his lower extremities. Stephen is affectionally known as "Dirt" within the racing community and with his peers. We are asking for prayers for Stephen at this time and we send our deepest thoughts and prayers to the Shaut family for their loss." said Stephen's father Gary Masch.
Previous to joining RWR, "Dirt" worked for Tennessee based Wayne Day Enterprises for the past four years, which has fielded drivers such as Casey Atwood, Willie Allen, David Ragan and David Starr.
Mark Soffa, President for Fuel Doctor USA, sponsor of the Rick Ware Racing teams stated "This is tragic for the families of both crewmen and the entire NASCAR community. We send our deepest condolences and prayers to both families".
Driver Jeffrey Earnhardt of the #1 NCWTS Chevy added: " This is absolutely devastating news about what has happened within our Rick Ware Racing teams. I am so sorry for what these families must be going through and I send my deepest sympathies to both the Shaut and Masch families.
Driver Timmy Hill of the #15 NNS car stated "I cant express how terrible this is to hear what has happened to my crew guys. Both Dean and "Dirt" have worked so hard on my car this season, and I am saddened by the news I received today and send my thoughts and prayers to their respective families".
