Truck driver charged in Tracy Morgan crash

Los Angeles: A Georgia truck driver has been charged in connection with the wreck on the New Jersey Turnpike that left comedian-actor Tracy Morgan in critical condition and another man dead.According to reports, 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 carrying the comedian and others.

Initial reports indicated there were seven people injured in the crash, but the prosecutor`s statement put the number at four. Morgan`s condition was not expected to change, publicist Lewis Kay said. "His family is now with him and he is receiving excellent care." Morgan, 45, was a regular on `Saturday Night Live` for seven years and received an Emmy nomination for his role on `30 Rock`, in which he played Tracy Jordan, an exaggerated version of himself. The wreck occurred on Saturday on the turnpike in Mercer County, said Sgt. Gregory Williams of New Jersey State Police. A limo passenger, 63-year-old James McNair of Peekshill, New York, was killed and three people besides Morgan were taken to the hospital, authorities said. The prosecutor`s statement said Morgan and two others, whose identities have not been formally released, remain hospitalised in critical condition. The remaining passenger was treated at the hospital and was released, the statement said. Four other vehicles subsequently were involved in the crash, the prosecutors said. 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.