WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — An undocumented driver faces charges after a deadly U-turn crash killed three people on August 12.
According to the New Mexico State Police (NMSP), Harjinder Singh, 28, was driving a 2024 International semi-truck when he made an illegal U-turn in an “official use only” area near mile marker 171. His trailer crossed all northbound lanes, colliding with a 2015 Chrysler Town & Country minivan. The occupants of the minivan were pronounced dead at the scene.
Following the incident, Singh was charged with three counts of vehicular homicide. Investigators from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) subsequently tested Singh's English proficiency and road-sign knowledge. Reports indicate he struggled, answering only 2 out of 12 questions correctly and identifying 1 out of 4 traffic signs.
Despite passing an initial traffic stop on July 3, where Singh communicated in English with the officer, NMSP noted that no English Language Proficiency test was necessary at that time. Authorities confirmed that such assessments are only required when communication issues arise.
The Department of Transportation is now investigating how Singh obtained commercial licenses across several states, despite failing to meet federal safety requirements.