Member of Erik Jones' pit crew 'awake and alert' after 'head-on' collision during Enjoy Illinois 300

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A member of Erik Jones' pit crew was hospitalized Sunday after taking a "head-on" shot from  a fellow crew member while Jones' No. 43 car was on pit road late in the Enjoy Illinois 300.

Thomas Hatcher, the front tire changer for Jones' team, collided with the tire carrier when Jones pitted on Lap 180.  Per PRN, Hatcher was "out" for a few moments after the collision. He eventually was placed on a stretcher and into an ambulance.

Hatcher was taken to a local hospital, with FS1's Mike Joy reporting during the broadcast he was "awake and alert." He received a CT scan at the hospital; he returned home Sunday evening after being evaluated for a head injury.

Per Bob Pockrass, he'll undergo additional testing in the coming few days to determine whether he has a concussion. His status for next week's race at Sonoma is to be determined.

Joe Gibbs Racing's Christopher Bell was among the legions of well-wishers to send their support to Hatcher after the race.

23XI Racing offered material aid to Jones' team. With Tyler Reddick's day done after a Stage 3 crash, the No. 45 team sent front tire changer Houston Stamper to help the Legacy Motor Club team finish the race. Jones ended the day in 18th place. Kyle Busch won the race.

MORE: Kyle Busch grabs third Cup Series win of season at St. Louis

Jones told Fox Sports' Bob Pockrass after the race that he didn't get a good look at what happened to Hatcher.

"Thinking about Hatcher and his family," Jones said. "Hoping to talk to him soon."

Fox Sports erroneously reported that Hatcher was struck by the No. 3 car of Austin Dillon. The network later said it reviewed video of the injury to determine what had happened.

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David Suggs is a content producer at The Sporting News.
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