Once month after a tragic crash on the New Jersey turnpike, Tracy Morgan has been released from a rehabilitation center to continue his treatment in an aggressive outpatient program.
Time attainted a statement by Morgan’s publicist saying, “He asked me to pass along his sincerest gratitude to everyone who has helped him get to this point. He would also appreciate some privacy during this crucial point in his recovery.”
Morgan announced just this week he will be taking legal action against the Wal-Mart truck driver believed to be at fault in the accident. (Via David Shankbone / CC BY 3.0)
"Now the lawsuit clams Wal-Mart was negligent when a driver of its tractor tailor ran into Morgan's limousine bus on a New Jersey turnpike." (Via WJBK)
Tracey Morgan was seriously injured the crash, and his friend and fellow comedian, James "Jimmy Mack" McNair, died. (Via News 12 New Jersey)
McNair's wife, along with Morgan's assistant and comedian Ardie Fuqua, both of whom were injured in the incident, are also suing for negligence. And McNair's wife also filed for loss of consortium.
"Here's what we know about the lawsuit. According to it, Wal-Mart should have known that its driver had been awake for more than 24 hours." (Via CNN)
The Wal-Mart employee driving the tractor trailer, Kevin Roper, was charged with vehicular homicide in the June 7 crash. He has pleaded not guilty. (Via Fox News)
However, a preliminary investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board indicated Roper was driving 65 in a 45 mph zone. (Via New York Daily News)
The Hollywood Reporter obtained a statement from Wal-Mart released shortly after the crash, which reads, in part, "We are deeply sorry that one of our trucks was involved. As we’ve said, we’re cooperating fully in the ongoing investigation..."
Morgan suffered broken ribs, a broken nose and a broken leg in the crash, but is now said to be in fair condition.
