Police: Driver Who Caused Tracy Morgan Crash Hadn't Slept in More Than 24 Hours




06/09/2014 at 11:45 AM EDT



The truck driver charged in the crash that left Tracy Morgan in critical condition had been awake for more than 24 hours before hitting the road, according to the criminal complaint in the case.

Kevin Roper of Jonesboro, Georgia, was behind the wheel of a Walmart truck early Saturday, when police say he caused a six-vehicle pile-up on the New Jersey Turnpike.


In a criminal complaint obtained by PEOPLE on Monday, New Jersey State Police say Roper, 35, drove "without having slept for a period in excess of 24 hours."


Police: Driver Who Caused Tracy Morgan Crash Hadn't Slept in More Than 24 Hours| Crime & Courts, Sickness & Injury, Tracy Morgan

Kevin Roper


Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office




During the accident, the limo bus carrying Morgan and his friends flipped over, seriously injuring the former 30 Rock star and two other passengers and killing comedian James "Jimmy Mack" McNair.

Roper now faces charges including vehicular homicide, auto assault and reckless driving. He is expected in court on Wednesday.


In a statement Saturday, Walmart president and CEO Bill Simon said his company will take full responsibility for the crash, calling road safety "our absolute highest priority."


"This is a tragedy and we are profoundly sorry that one of our trucks was involved. We are working quickly to understand what happened and are cooperating fully with law enforcement to aid their investigation," he said.


Morgan, 45, remains in critical condition but is more responsive after undergoing surgery Sunday, progress his rep called "an incredibly encouraging sign."


With reporting by DIANE HERBST






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