Xfinity crewman suspended for punching team owner

Xfinity Series crewmember Lawrence Hayden was arrested Friday morning at Dover International Speedway after a physical altercation with his team owner.

Dover Police Department spokesman Mark Hoffman told The News Journal that Hayden got into an argument with JP Motorsports co-owner Jerry Hattaway about Hayden's employment, which then turned physical. Hayden, 33, is said to have repeatedly punched Hattaway, breaking his jaw. Hattaway was first treated at the track before being transported to Bayhealth Kent General Hospital.

Hayden has been charged with one count of second degree assault and given a $500 secured bail. He has been indefinitely suspended from NASCAR.

“Crew member Lawrence Hayden has been indefinitely suspended from NASCAR following his arrest by the Dover police department,” a NASCAR statement read. “NASCAR will continue working with local law enforcement and will have no further comment at this time.”

Hattaway co-owns two cars in the Xfinity Series, the Nos. 45 and 55. Josh Bilicki and Stephen Leicht will compete for the team in today’s OneMain Financial 200.