NBCTracy Morgan remains in critical condition in a hospital after suffering injuries in a deadly multi-vehicle crash, while a Georgia truck driver has been charged with causing the accident, officials say.
The crash occurred early on Saturday, June 7, on a highway in New Jersey. Morgan was riding in a limo bus after performing a standup comedy show the night before when a tractor-trailer, also called a semi-truck, crashed into it, spurring a six-vehicle pileup.
On Saturday afternoon, a local prosecutor and a state police official said in a statement obtained by E! News that Kevin Roper, a 35-year-old truck driver from Georgia, has been charged with charged with one count of death by auto and four counts of assault by auto in connection with the accident, following a preliminary investigation. He was jailed on a $50,000 bond and has not commented.
The statement said James McNair, who was riding with Morgan, was pronounced dead at the scene. The 62-year-old is also a comedian, known by the stage name Jimmy Mack.
Authorities added that Morgan and another passenger, a 36-year-old Connecticut man, were airlifted to the hospital and that the two and another 43-year-old New Jersey man remain in critical condition. A fourth passenger was treated and released. Authorities have not disclosed the names of the other crash survivors. No other injuries were reported.
A rep for Morgan, who is a 45-year-old father of four, told E! News that the actor's family arrived at the hospital to be by his side. At least 15 celebrities, including actors who have worked with Morgan and fellow comics, have shared online messages of support, prayers and love.