Car chief for Chip Ganassi’s Xfinity Series team dies at 34

Ryan Shea, who joined Chip Ganassi Racing in January of 2015, died Wednesday night at his home in Troutman, N.C., north of Charlotte. He was 34.

A cause of death was not immediately disclosed.

"It is a sad day for our team as we mourn the untimely loss of Ryan,"team owner Chip Ganassi said of Shea, who was the car chief for Ganassi's No. 42 Xfinity Series car. "Ryan was a dedicated worker and a great friend to those on our team, as well as others in the garage. Our hearts go out to Ryan’s family and friends during this difficult time."

Kyle Larson and Justin Marks have both driven the No. 42 car this season. Larson drove the car at Daytona, Atlanta and Auto Club Speedway. Marks was behind the wheel in Las Vegas and Phoenix.

Shea joined CGR after serving as a car chief/mechanic at Michael Waltrip Racing from 2007-15. He began his NASCAR career in 2001 when he was hired by BAM Racing and has also worked for FitzBradshaw Racing, Carver Racing, ppc Racing and Braun Racing.

"Ryan was a tremendous asset to Chip Ganassi Racing and the No. 42 team and will be sorely missed," CGR crew chief Mike Shiplett said. "My thoughts go out to his wife, children, family and friends in this time of mourning."

Chip Ganassi Racing said it would have details regarding funeral arrangements and memorials as those become available.

Several in the NASCAR community used social media to express their feelings on Shea's death. Sporting News