“30 Rock” star Tracy Morgan spoke out for the first time about the car crash that left him in critical condition and killed friend and comedian James “Uncle Jimmy Mack” McNair last month. “I’m OK,” Morgan told reporters outside of his home in Cresskill, NJ. “I feel strong.” Photographers applauded him for remaining in high spirits, despite using a walker during his recovery. “Love you, thank you very much,” Morgan added.
Morgan suffered from a broken femur, a broken nose, and several broken ribs as the driver of a Wal-Mart truck crashed into the back of the limousine van he and Mcnair, 62, were riding in. McNair died at the scene of the crash. The other passengers, comedian Ardley Fuqua and Jeffrey Millea, received medical care for non-life-threatening injuries. This past week, Morgan was released from a rehabilitation center, his representative Lewis Kay said. Morgan will continue his recovery at home with an “aggressive outpatient program.”
Morgan didn’t offer up a comment about the lawsuit he and the family of the other passengers slapped against Wal-Mart Stores Inc. last week. The suit claims that the major retailer is at fault for allowing truck driver Kevin Roper, 35, to operate a vehicle despite being awake for 24 hours. The suit also claims that Roper fell asleep at the wheel during his 700-mile commute, which could have contributed to the accident. Wal-Mart issued a statement that they are cooperating fully in the ongoing investigation. “We know it will take some time to resolve all of the remaining issues as a result of the accident, but we’re committed to doing the right thing for all involved,” Wal-Mart said in a statement.
Roper pleaded not guilty to charges of death by auto and assault by auto charges. He will also face criminal charges for not sleeping for more than 24 hours, a violation of New Jersey law. Morgan’s representative did not comment on the pending case against Roper. They are focusing on Morgan’s recovery so that he can get back to telling jokes.