The driver of the Walmart 18-wheeler that caused the accident that left comedian Tracy Morgan critically injured, comedian James McNair dead, and three others badly hurt has been charged. The driver has been identified as 35-year-old Kevin Roper of Jonesboro, Georgia and is facing one count of death by auto and four counts of assault by auto. “This is a tragedy and we are profoundly sorry that one of our trucks was involved,” said a Walmart spokesperson in a statement.
The driver of Morgan’s limo bus spoke out about the accident. “I climbed around and heard Tracy screaming for help,” chauffeur Tyrone Gale said. “I climbed up on the body of the limo bus . . . but I couldn’t reach them.” Morgan sustained a number of injuries, including a broken femur, a broken nose and several broken ribs. He had surgery earlier Sunday on his leg. The other passengers, Tracy’s manager Jeffrey Millea and comedian Ardie Fuqua Jr are also in critical condition. Reps for Tracy Morgan say he is more responsive today, but still in critical condition. He is expected to be in the hospital for several weeks.
As for Kevin Roper, he was released after posting $50,000 bail. This is a sad situation for everyone involved.
