Tracy Morgan crash: Driver's multi-state commute investigated

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. (KABC) -- Investigators are examining the work commute of the truck driver who plowed into traffic on the New Jersey Turnpike, injuring comedian Tracy Morgan and killing a friend on Saturday.

Wal-Mart driver Kevin Roper, 35, lives in Georgia but works out of Delaware, according to the National Transportation Safety Board, the investigating agency.

Roper has pleaded not guilty to death by auto and assault by auto charges. A criminal complaint against him alleges the Jonesboro, Georgia resident had not slept for more than 24 hours before the accident.

Roper allegedly swerved to avoid slowed traffic on the turnpike and smashed into Morgan's limo-van Saturday morning. Morgan remained in critical but stable condition Wednesday. Friend and fellow comedian James McNair was killed. Two other passengers were seriously injured.

Roper's bail was kept at $50,000. Roper and his attorney, David Glassman, refused to answer reporters' questions after the hearing about whether Roper was the author of tweets from a Twitter account bearing his name and featuring his picture and calling reports of his not having slept for 24 hours before the accident "complete BS!"

Wal-Mart has not explained what Roper's driving route was. The company has said it believes he was in compliance with federal safety regulations.

If convicted, Roper faces five to 10 years in prison for the death by auto charge; each assault by auto charge is punishable by up to 18 months in prison.

Morgan, 45, suffered a broken femur, a broken nose and broke ribs. He underwent surgery for his broken leg.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.