WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — An undocumented driver is facing three counts of vehicular homicide following a fatal crash in St. Lucie County on August 12. Harjinder Singh, 28, allegedly made an illegal U-turn in an “official use only” area while operating a 2024 International semi-truck at mile marker 171.
According to the New Mexico State Police Department (NMSP), Singh’s trailer crossed all northbound lanes, striking a 2015 Chrysler Town & Country minivan. All three occupants in the van were killed on impact.
Authorities noted that during a prior traffic stop on July 3, Singh communicated effectively in English, thus an English Language Proficiency (ELP) test was not mandated. However, subsequent investigations revealed Singh failed an ELP assessment, answering only 2 of 12 verbal questions correctly and identifying 1 of 4 road signs.
Following these findings, the Department of Transportation and other federal agencies initiated an investigation into how Singh obtained commercial licenses in multiple states despite failing to meet federal safety requirements.
Emergency response teams arrived at the scene post-crash, confirming the fatalities and initiating the investigation.
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of compliance with federal safety standards for commercial drivers while enforcing regulations regarding English proficiency.