Kevin Roper, the Walmart truck driver who bumped into the back of a Limousin van carrying Tracy and other comedian in June 2014, has been indicted by a grand jury.
- Dec 24, 2015
AceShowbiz - Kevin Roper, the Walmart truck driver who slammed into the back of Tracy Morgan's Limousin van back in 2014, was indicted by a grand jury on Wednesday, December 23. Kevin was charged with first-degree aggravated manslaughter, second-degree vehicular homicide and eight counts of third-degree aggravated assault charges.
According to The Associated Press, Kevin's lawyer tried unsuccessfully to have previous charges of vehicular homicide and assault by auto thrown out. The lawyer argued that Wal-Mart's settlement of Tracy's lawsuit generated publicity that harmed his client's chance for a fair trial.
Tracy settled his lawsuit against Walmart back in May. At that time, the "Saturday Night Live" star said the multinational retail corporation was eager to take full responsibility for the accident. "Walmart did right by me and my family, and for my associates and their families," he shared, "I am grateful that the case was resolved amicably."
Walmart initially pleaded not guilty to Tracy's suit but it eventually admitted that they were at fault. Tracy's lawyer Benedict P. Morelli said, "Walmart and I worked diligently to reach this settlement for the plaintiffs and their families. Walmart took full responsibility for the accident, which we greatly appreciate."
The June 2014 accident killed Tracy's fellow comedian James McNair and caused the "Top Five" actor to suffer from head trauma, a broken leg and broken ribs.
