Second Rick Ware Racing crew member dies after crash

The second Rick Ware Racing crew member involved in a crash that killed his fellow crewman two weeks ago died Wednesday.

"With heavy hearts we are saddened by the loss of Steve 'Dirt' Masch today," Rick Ware Racing's Facebook page announced Wednesday.

Masch and Dean Shaut were in Shaut's personal vehicle on Ball Park Road in Thomasville, N.C., the night of March 11 when Shaut lost control of the vehicle, hitting a telephone pole and a tree. The vehicle flipped several times before coming to a stop.

Shaut was pronounced dead at the scene.

Masch, the passenger, was airlifted to Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem, N.C., with head and spinal chord injuries, which left him paralyzed. He underwent surgery before coming down with pneumonia, eventually succumbing to his injuries Wednesday.

Masch and Shaut began assisting Rick Ware Racing this season as independent contractors.

Rick Ware Racing has established a fund for the Shaut and Masch families and is asking for donations. All proceeds will go toward funeral bills, medical bills and living expenses to aid both families.

To contribute, visit any SunTrust Bank and ask to donate to the Dean Shaut/Steve Masch Fund. On their Twitter page, Rick Ware Racing said donations may also be sent to the following address: Stephen Masch &/or Dean Shaut Benefit, c/o SunTrust Bank, 232 Williamson Road, Mooresville, NC 28117.

For further information, please visit the team's website at www.rickwareracing.com.