I see it exactly opposite of you. Whatever maneuver Tony made was to try and avoid the young man based on what I’ve read today about how those cars operate. Saw a still photo of the deceased directly in front of Stewart’s car just before impact which I don’t think happened because of anything Tony did.
While the race is still stopped...(It is isn’t it? mrs p6 appropriated the big TV because Gordon is out)...I’ve been watching video of the accident and now pretty much agree with you.
It seems like Ward slapped his hand against Tony’s spoiler. Ward got caught, Tony swerved but dragged Ward. Ward fell loose when was Tony was swerving and the right rear tire went over Ward’s right shoulder, possibly his head.