A federal investigation has been launched into the fatal Florida Turnpike crash in Fort Pierce, focusing on the driver, the trucking company, and regulatory compliance. The Florida Turnpike crash that left three dead has raised questions about commercial driver licensing and enforcement across state lines.
Federal Probe Into Florida Turnpike Crash in Fort Pierce
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) began its investigation after a deadly accident involving a semi-truck and a minivan on the Florida Turnpike in Fort Pierce on August 12, 2025. The crash killed all three occupants of the minivan and prompted immediate scrutiny from federal and state officials.
Sean Duffy, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, announced the investigation. He stated the probe will examine the actions of both the truck driver and the motor carrier, White Hawk Carriers, Inc., to determine if federal safety regulations were violated.
Details of the Fatal Crash and Driver’s Actions
According to authorities, Harjinder Singh, the driver of the semi-truck, attempted an illegal U-turn on the Florida Turnpike in Fort Pierce. A minivan collided with the truck, causing the deaths of three people inside the vehicle. For a detailed account of the turnpike collision near Fort Pierce that resulted in three fatalities after a semi-truck’s U-turn, authorities have released official reports.
After the crash, Singh traveled to Sacramento, California, where he was later arrested. He appeared in a California Department of Motor Vehicles court for an extradition hearing as prosecutors work to bring him back to Florida to face three counts of vehicular manslaughter.
Truck Driver’s Licensing and Immigration Status
Investigators revealed that Singh entered the United States illegally from Mexico in 2018. He later obtained a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in California. Records show that California issued him a limited-term, non-domiciled CDL in July 2024. In 2023, Washington State Department of Licensing also issued Singh a regular, full-term CDL, despite federal rules prohibiting individuals without legal status from receiving such licenses.
Governor Ron DeSantis criticized the issuance of the licenses, stating, “That should have never happened, he should have never been here. He certainly shouldn’t have gotten a commercial driver’s license from California.”
FMCSA Investigation Into Carrier and State Compliance
The FMCSA began its investigation at White Hawk Carriers, Inc.’s premises in California on August 14, 2025. The agency is reviewing whether the company and state agencies followed federal regulations regarding driver qualifications and language proficiency.
As part of the investigation, Singh underwent an English Language Proficiency (ELP) assessment. He reportedly answered only 2 out of 12 verbal questions correctly and identified just 1 of 4 highway traffic signs. Federal rules require commercial truck drivers to demonstrate English proficiency to operate safely on U.S. roads.
State Violations and Regulatory Concerns
The FMCSA found that both New Mexico State Police and Washington state may have violated federal rules. In July 2025, New Mexico State Police conducted a roadside inspection of Singh and issued a speeding ticket, but there is no record of an ELP assessment being administered. Washington state’s issuance of a full-term CDL to Singh is also under review, as asylum seekers or individuals without legal status are not eligible for this type of license. For more on the legal aftermath, see how the driver was charged after the fatal Florida Turnpike crash in St. Lucie County.
In May 2025, a federal order was signed requiring all commercial truckers to be proficient in English. The FMCSA is investigating whether states are complying with this order and other federal safety standards.
Political and Industry Reactions to the Crash
The fatal Florida Turnpike crash has sparked debate about commercial driver licensing, immigration policies, and enforcement. Secretary Duffy called the incident a “preventable tragedy” and criticized what he described as “non-enforcement and radical immigration policies” affecting the trucking industry.
Industry groups and public officials are calling for stricter oversight of commercial driver licensing, especially for out-of-state and non-domiciled drivers. The FMCSA’s ongoing investigation may result in policy changes or enforcement actions against states and carriers found in violation of federal rules.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Florida Turnpike Crash Investigation
What is the federal investigation into the Florida Turnpike crash?
The federal investigation is led by the FMCSA and focuses on the fatal crash in Fort Pierce, examining the truck driver, the motor carrier, and whether state and federal regulations were followed.
How did the Florida Turnpike crash happen in Fort Pierce?
The crash occurred when a semi-truck driver made an illegal U-turn on the Florida Turnpike in Fort Pierce. A minivan collided with the truck, resulting in three fatalities.
Are there rules for commercial driver’s licenses for non-citizens?
Yes, federal regulations require commercial drivers to have legal status in the U.S. and demonstrate English proficiency. The investigation is looking into whether these rules were followed in this case.
Can you get a CDL in California or Washington without legal status?
Federal rules state that only individuals with legal status can receive a commercial driver’s license. The investigation found possible violations in both California and Washington regarding this requirement.
Where are the main locations involved in the Florida Turnpike crash investigation?
The crash happened in Fort Pierce, Florida. The driver was arrested in Sacramento, California, and the trucking company is based in California. Washington and New Mexico are also part of the investigation due to licensing and inspection issues.
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