Tracy Morgan’s limo driver recalled the “explosion” that rocked their luxury wheels, triggering a deadly pileup that left the “30 Rock” funnyman screaming for help.
Morgan was still listed in critical condition at a New Jersey hospital Sunday following the Turnpike crash that killed passenger and close friend James McNair.
Limo driver Tyrone Gale said he and other passengers never saw it coming — a Walmart big-rig that slammed into them from behind early Saturday morning.
“It felt like an explosion,” Gale told ABC News on Sunday. “I climbed around and heard Tracy screaming for help.”
Gale was in no position to immediately get to Morgan.
“I climbed up on the body of the limo bus,” he said, “but I couldn’t reach them and pull them.”
Morgan and his crew had been all smiles earlier that night, after doing a show in Dover, Del.
Gale recalled how much pride Morgan had, seeing his infant daughter.
“[It was] a great show in Dover, a lot of excitement going home,” Gale said. “Tracy was holding the baby before we left and he said, `I’m holding my princess!’”
Walmart CEO Bill Simon has said his company will “take full responsibility” if it’s shown that its driver caused this accident.
“We’re praying for the family and friends of the passenger who lost his life in the terrible accident in New Jersey,” Simon said. “Our hearts go out to everyone involved and we hope those who were injured get the care that they need and make a full recovery.”
He added: “The facts are continuing to unfold. If it’s determined that our truck caused the accident, Walmart will take full responsibility.”