HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. ( QUEEN CITY NEWS ) — 'We will deeply miss him,' Hattori Racing shared on X following the death of its 61-year-old owner, Shigeaki "Shige" Hattori, who was recognized as the casualty in a fatal accident on Saturday.
The Huntersville Police Department reported that Hattori from Mooresville was operating a 2025 Toyota Crown traveling west on NC Highway 73 near 9:15 a.m. It is alleged that he drifted across the center line and collided with a 2024 Lexus GX550.
Hattori was declared deceased at the location. The individual driving the Lexus was transported to a nearby medical facility with injuries not considered life-threatening.
The head of Hattori Racing Enterprises, Hattori relocated to the U.S. during the 1990s from Okayama, Japan, with aspirations of becoming an open-wheel racing driver. He claimed victory in two INDY NXT by Firestone events and participated twice in the Indianapolis 500.
The team stated, “Shige was renowned for his unyielding determination, concentration, and competitive nature. He poured his heart into HRE and Hattori Motorsports, turning their management into his ultimate dedication and lifelong mission.”
In 2004 and 2005, Hattori participated in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series before shifting his focus to establish Hattori Racing Enterprises in 2008. As an owner of this racing enterprise, he secured victories in 14 NCTS events and achieved the pinnacle of success with a win at the "utmost accomplishment" — securing the 2018 series title.
NASCAR told Queen City News in an official statement: “Shigeaki Hattori was an enthusiastic driver and remarkably effective team proprietor. However, overshadowing all of his squad’s achievements—which include winning the NASCAR Truck Series title—Shige was truly a cherished figure within the racing community. He devoted himself completely to elevating our sport along with everyone involved in it. His untimely death has left us profoundly sorrowful. The NASCAR organization conveys its heartfelt condolences to his family and numerous friends.”
The investigators do not think that speeding or impairment played a role in the accident, but the case is still being looked into.
Those who have details can reach out to Sgt. Bryan Gantt at 704-464-5371.
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