FORT PIERCE, FL — Authorities say a semi-truck driver has been arrested following a deadly crash on Florida’s Turnpike that killed three people from South Florida earlier this month.
Semi-Truck Driver Arrested in Deadly Fort Pierce Crash That Killed Three
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), 28-year-old Harjinger Singh faces three counts of vehicular homicide in connection with the August 12 crash near mile marker 170 in Fort Pierce. Officials say Singh attempted an illegal U-turn in a restricted turnaround area marked “official use only” when his semi-truck crossed directly into the path of a Chrysler Town & Country minivan.
The minivan collided with the truck and became wedged beneath the trailer. The driver, a 30-year-old man from Florida City, was airlifted to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital but later died. Two passengers — a 37-year-old woman from Pompano Beach and a 54-year-old man from Miami — were pronounced dead at the scene. Singh was not injured.
FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner condemned the act, saying in a statement: “Three people lost their lives as a result of his recklessness, and countless friends and family members will experience the pain of their loss forever.”
Arrest in California After Truck Driver Attempts to Flee
Singh fled Florida the day after the crash, flying with a passenger to Sacramento on August 13. A warrant for his arrest was issued on August 15, and the U.S. Marshals Service confirmed he was taken into custody in Stockton, California, on Saturday. He was booked at the San Joaquin County Jail without incident.
An investigation revealed Singh had been living in the United States illegally since 2018, after crossing the southern border from Mexico. ICE placed an immigration detainer on him, and officials said deportation proceedings will follow once the state charges are resolved.
Questions Over Commercial Driver’s License
Despite his immigration status, Singh was able to obtain a commercial driver’s license in California. The California Department of Motor Vehicles stated that it followed all federal requirements, including verification through the federal SAVE system, which confirmed Singh’s legal presence at the time of application.
“The DMV followed all federal and state laws in reviewing and granting Mr. Singh his California commercial driver’s license,” the agency said in a statement.
National Reaction to Fatal Truck Accident
The case has fueled sharp criticism regarding immigration enforcement and federal verification systems. Florida Attorney General Pamela Bondi issued a pointed response, writing: “The American people have suffered the deadly consequences of illegal immigration for far too long. The DOJ will prosecute every illegal alien and fight against all sanctuary jurisdictions enabling the invasion of our country.”
Authorities confirmed Singh remains in custody on both vehicular homicide charges and immigration violations. His first court appearance is expected in California before extradition proceedings to Florida begin.
Legal Options for Families After Fatal Truck Accidents
Following the devastating crash on Florida’s Turnpike that claimed three lives, many families find themselves asking what legal paths are available when a loved one is killed in a truck accident. Attorney Laurence Banville sat down with veteran Florida wrongful death lawyer Michael Haggard, who broke down the rights families have, the role of safety regulations, and how the law holds drivers and trucking companies accountable.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Families are devastated after this tragedy. From a legal perspective, what options do loved ones have when dealing with the aftermath of a fatal truck accident?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: In cases like this, families of the victims may pursue wrongful death claims against the driver, and in some circumstances, the trucking company as well. If it’s shown the employer failed to follow federal or state safety regulations or overlooked red flags in the driver’s qualifications, they could share liability.
Banville: How do state and federal laws affect these cases?
Haggard: Trucking is heavily regulated, and violations of safety rules—such as improper licensing, hours-of-service violations, or reckless maneuvers like an illegal U-turn—can become powerful evidence in court. These regulations are in place to save lives, so any breach carries serious legal consequences.
Banville: For grieving families, what does this process look like?
Haggard: It can be long and emotional, but wrongful death claims allow families to seek justice and financial support. Compensation can cover funeral costs, loss of future earnings, and the emotional impact of losing a loved one. While money can’t replace a life, holding responsible parties accountable can prevent future tragedies.
Standing Up for Families After Tragedy
The aftermath of a truck crash can leave families overwhelmed with grief, questions, and financial strain. Our legal team is here to guide you through every step of the process and fight for the accountability and compensation your family deserves. If you or a loved one has been affected by a truck accident, contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help protect your rights.
