Three Killed in Fort Pierce Turnpike Crash, Immigration Controversy Follows
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (CBS12) — A deadly crash on Florida's Turnpike resulted in three fatalities on August 12, igniting a nationwide immigration and licensing debate.
Authorities said a semi-truck driven by 28-year-old Harjinder Singh attempted an illegal U-turn, blocking all northbound lanes. A Chrysler minivan collided with the trailer, killing a 37-year-old woman from Pompano Beach, a 54-year-old man from Miami, and a 30-year-old man from Florida City. Singh and his passenger were reportedly unharmed and left the state the following day before a warrant was issued.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Lt. Gov. Jay Collins would travel to California to extradite Singh, who was arrested on August 16. Singh faces three counts of vehicular homicide, with a maximum sentence of 45 years in prison if convicted.
During a court appearance in California, Singh signed extradition papers, starting a 30-day period for Florida authorities to transport him back. He is currently held without bail and is under a federal immigration detainer.
Investigations reveal Singh crossed the U.S.-Mexico border illegally in 2018 and claimed asylum. Federal regulators are scrutinizing how he obtained commercial driver's licenses in multiple states, especially after failing English proficiency and road sign tests.
DeSantis criticized the broader immigration system following the crash, stating Singh's demeanor was “cold” after the incident. The trucking company involved, White Hawk Carriers, is also under investigation for multiple violations.
Federal officials are expected to continue probing the circumstances surrounding Singh's licenses and his ability to operate commercial vehicles.