This past weekend brought heartbreaking news to the North Carolina racing community when beloved veteran stock-car driver Robbie Brewer tragically passed away during a race at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem.
The Incident That Shocked Fans
Brewer, a well-known figure at the track, suffered a sudden medical emergency while competing in a Sportsman Series race.
During a restart on lap 16, his car unexpectedly accelerated into the Turn 4 wall at full speed.
The crash was severe enough that track workers had to carefully remove the roof of his car to reach him.
Fans watching held their breath as the car came to rest near the start-finish line, hoping for the best.
Emergency Response and Passing
Paramedics quickly transported 53-year-old Brewer to Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist hospital, but sadly, he passed away shortly after arrival.
The exact nature of his medical emergency was not publicly disclosed.
Track officials expressed their deep sadness in a statement, highlighting Brewer’s talent, passion, and respect within the racing community.
They extended their thoughts and prayers to his family and friends during this difficult time.
A Personal Tribute From His Fiancée
Brewer’s fiancée, Angel McCarter, shared an emotional tribute on social media.
She revealed that just before the tragedy, they had returned from a vacation filled with joyful memories, including celebrating her child’s second birthday.
McCarter spoke about how eager Brewer was to get back on the track and that he felt positive after his first practice session, which led him to skip the second.
She also shared the pain of walking through the hospital halls after the crash, saying the moment was forever etched in her soul.
The couple had recently obtained their marriage license and were planning to wed later this month.
Her heartfelt words ended with, “Robbie Brewer, I love you to the moon and back… and all around the race track.”
Brewer’s Racing Legacy
Robbie Brewer’s career at Bowman Gray Stadium began in 1990, and over the years, he made nearly 260 starts in the Sportsman Division.
His dedication paid off with a points championship win in 2011.
Thousands of fans gather every Saturday night during the racing season to watch competitors like Brewer race across four divisions at this iconic track, which also hosted a NASCAR Cup Series preseason exhibition earlier this year.
Fellow Drivers Remember a Racing Brother
Brad Lewis, a fellow driver who lived near Brewer’s race shop, spoke fondly of him, saying Brewer was like a big brother despite their close ages.
Lewis called Brewer a “wheelman through and through” and vowed to honor his memory throughout the racing season and beyond.
“He’ll be missed,” Lewis said simply but sincerely.
