AI Generated Summary
- An Indian-origin truck driver accused of causing a deadly highway collision in Florida last week has been denied bond, igniting a political clash between federal authorities and California’s governor over immigration and licensing policies.
- A minivan traveling in an adjacent lane collided with the trailer, killing the driver and two passengers.
- Authorities continue to investigate the crash as political tensions simmer between state and federal leaders over who bears responsibility for allowing Singh to be behind the wheel.
An Indian-origin truck driver accused of causing a deadly highway collision in Florida last week has been denied bond, igniting a political clash between federal authorities and California’s governor over immigration and licensing policies.
Harjinder Singh, who authorities say entered the United States illegally from Mexico in 2018, faces three counts of vehicular homicide along with immigration-related charges. According to Lt. Andrew Bolonka of the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, Singh remains in custody at the St. Lucie County Jail without bond, with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement placing a hold on him.
Deadly Highway Incident
The fatal crash occurred roughly 50 miles north of West Palm Beach when Singh allegedly made an illegal U-turn in his truck. A minivan traveling in an adjacent lane collided with the trailer, killing the driver and two passengers. Singh and a passenger in his truck were unharmed.
Immigration and Licensing Debate
The case has escalated into a heated debate between the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and California Governor Gavin Newsom. DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin criticized California for issuing Singh a commercial driver’s license despite his undocumented status, calling the decision “asinine.” California is among 19 states and the District of Columbia that allow driver’s licenses regardless of immigration status.
Governor Newsom’s office countered via social media, stating Singh had obtained a work permit during Donald Trump’s presidency — a claim McLaughlin disputes.
Political Fallout
Florida’s Republican Governor Ron DeSantis sent Lt. Governor Jay Collins to California to personally escort Singh onto a plane bound for Florida last Thursday. The move underscored the political dimensions of the case, which has become emblematic of ongoing national debates over immigration enforcement, state licensing laws, and public safety.
Authorities continue to investigate the crash as political tensions simmer between state and federal leaders over who bears responsibility for allowing Singh to be behind the wheel.
