A 21-year-old semi-truck driver was arrested following a multi-vehicle collision on the 10 freeway in Ontario, California, which resulted in at least three fatalities. The suspect, Jashanpreet Singh, is alleged to have been driving under the influence of alcohol and speeding when he collided with slow-moving traffic, triggering a chain reaction that caused extensive damage. Witnesses described the crash as sounding like an explosion, with Singh’s truck reportedly failing to brake or swerve before impacting other vehicles.
Singh was detained by San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department on suspicion of DUI causing great bodily injury and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. Authorities stated he had not yet been formally charged. A witness, Jason Calmelat, recounted seeing the red truck driven by Singh “go straight” into traffic without attempting to avoid the collision. The crash left three victims unidentified, with four others injured, including Singh and a mechanic assisting with a tire change on the freeway.
California Highway Patrol Officer Rodrigo Jimenez described the scene as chaotic, noting debris scattered across the road and a hazardous material incident. Two victims were in a severely damaged vehicle that could not be identified, while the third was in a pickup truck. Investigators are examining potential factors, including mechanical issues, but emphasized the preventable nature of the tragedy. Jimenez urged drivers to adhere to traffic laws and remain sober to avoid similar incidents.
Singh, an Indian national, is reportedly an undocumented immigrant who was apprehended at the California border in March 2022 under the Biden administration. ICE has requested a detainer for Singh, though no official charges have been filed. A dash cam video from the truck, shared on social media, is being analyzed as part of the investigation.
