Saturday Night Live’s Tracy Morgan critical after road accident, truck driver charged

‘Saturday Night Live’ star Tracy Morgan is reportedly in critical condition following a multi-vehicle collision in New Jersey early today that killed one person and injured seven others. A Georgia truck driver has been charged in connection with the wreck on the New Jersey Turnpike. 63-year-old James McNair of Peekshill, New York, was killed and three people besides Morgan were taken to the hospital, authorities said.

The 45-year-old ‘30 Rock’ star was returning from a concert in a limo bus when the accident occurred in Mercer County, CNN reported quoting Sgt Gregory Williams of the New Jersey State Police.

In a statement released by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, it said that Kevin Roper, 35, of Jonesboro, has been charged with one count of death by auto and four counts of assault by auto after the tractor-trailer he was driving crashed into the limo bus.

The limo bus overturned after it was rear-ended by a tractor-trailer. Two tractor-trailers, two cars, an SUV and the limo bus were involved in the accident.

“The limo bus is the only vehicle that overturned. Looks like one of the tractor-trailers may have rear-ended that limo bus, but that’s preliminary at this time,” Williams said. One person was killed and seven others hospitalised with injuries, authorities said.

Williams ruled out alcohol as a factor in the crash at this point.

Morgan’s condition was not expected to change, publicist Lewis Kay said. “His family is now with him and he is receiving excellent care.”

The four injured were being treated at the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. State police confirmed his identity to CNN.

Morgan performed a comedy tour act Friday night at the Dover Downs Hotel & Casino in Dover, Delaware, the venue said.

The actor received messages of support and concern on Twitter. “Wishing a speedy recovery to our friend Tracy Morgan,” tweeted SNL Weekend Update.

“Shocked to wake up and read that Tracy Morgan is injured. Love to Tracy and wishing him strength,” said former SNL cast member Rachel Dratch.

“My thoughts are with Tracy Morgan and his family. I hope he pulls through this soon and gets back to making us laugh!” said Joan Rivers.

“Saying a prayer for Tracy Morgan,” said actor-director Jon Favreau.

PTI