The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that Harjinder Singh, the Indian migrant truck driver involved in a deadly crash in Florida that claimed three lives, had received work authorization under the Biden administration. Singh had previously been denied a work permit during Donald Trump’s presidency.
Singh, who entered the United States in September 2018, was initially processed for fast-track deportation but remained in the country claiming a threat to his life in India. He later obtained a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in California, allowing him to work as a truck driver.
On August 12, Singh attempted an illegal U-turn through an “Official Use Only” access point in St. Lucie County, resulting in a severe collision that killed three people. Following his arrest, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) issued a detainer on August 16 to ensure Singh remains in custody pending his criminal case, after which he will be transferred to ICE custody.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom, stating that issuing a CDL to an illegal migrant endangered public safety. “Three innocent people were killed in Florida because Gavin Newsom’s California DMV issued an illegal alien a Commercial Driver’s License,” McLaughlin said, calling for stronger measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
The DHS is coordinating with local authorities to ensure the case is handled while safeguarding public safety.
