Morgan's Condition Improving; Walmart ‘Profoundly Sorry'

A Walmart spokesman says the international retailer is "praying" for those involved in the New Jersey Turnpike crash that critically injured comedian Tracy Morgan and killed the "30 Rock" star's mentor, James 'Jimmy Mack' McNair last Saturday.

A limo bus carrying 45-year-old Morgan and six others was struck by a Walmart tractor trailer, causing a six-vehicle pile-up near Exit 7A of the Turnpike in Cranbury, N.J. around 1 a.m. Saturday morning.

Sixty-three-year-old McNair died as a result of the accident and hundreds of mourners gathered in Peekskill, N.Y. for his funeral service Thursday.

The next day, Walmart's Vice President of Commucations David Tovar addressed the deadly crash in an email to the media.

"The entire Walmart family is praying for the family and friends of the passenger who lost his life and our hearts go out to those who were injured," Tovar wrote. "We are profoundly sorry that one of our trucks was involved -- and, we are working closely with law enforcement to aid their investigation."

He went on to say the international retailer will review its transportation policies and procedures.

Morgan, who is slowly recovering, remains hospitalized, according to a statement released by the SNL alum's rep Thursday.

"Today was a better day," Lewis Kay said in a statement. "While Tracy remains in critical, but stable, condition, he continues to show signs of improvement."

"His medical team remains optimistic that his recovery is progressing," he said. "Megan [Morgan's fiancee] remains by his side and is relaying the countless good wishes and prayers that his family, friends and fans have been sending their way."

Three others were also hurt in the crash.

Jeffrey Millea, of Shelton, Connecticut, and comedian Ardie Fuqua Jr. were seriously injured. Harris Stanton, another standup comedian, was treated and released from the hospital.

"Jeff's wife asked us to pass along that Jeff has also show much improvement over the past few days," Kay said. "She is very thankful for the love and support she and her family continue to receive."

The driver of the tractor trailer, 35-year-old Kevin Roper, is facing charges of vehicular homicide and assault by auto.

A criminal complaint alleges that he hadn't slept for 24 hours prior to the crash. Roper entered a not guilty plea in state Superior Court Wednesday.

Contact Us