A deadly U-turn crash on Florida’s Turnpike in St. Lucie County has led to new revelations, with investigators detailing the sequence of events and the aftermath involving the driver and passenger. The incident, which claimed three lives, has also sparked political debate over immigration policies, as highlighted in the initial reports on the semi-truck U-turn crash in Fort Pierce.
Deadly U-Turn Crash on Florida Turnpike: Key Details
The crash occurred on August 12, 2025, when a semi-truck attempted a U-turn at an official-use-only median crossover on the northbound side of Florida’s Turnpike, approximately 19 miles north of Okeechobee Road. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the semi-truck, driven by Harjinder Singh, was struck by a 2015 Chrysler minivan carrying three individuals.
All three occupants of the minivan died as a result of the collision. Faniola Joseph, 37, of Pompano Beach, and Rodrigue Dor, 54, of Miami, were pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, Herby Dufresne, 30, of Florida City, died after being transported to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce. For further analysis of the turnpike collision near Fort Pierce that left three dead, investigators have provided detailed accounts.
Passenger Statement: Uncertainty Over U-Turn Decision
Investigators interviewed the semi-truck’s passenger, who stated he was unsure why Singh attempted the U-turn. The passenger, who was watching videos on his phone at the time, initially thought they had pulled over to check the brakes or change a tire. Instead, Singh continued driving and began the U-turn maneuver.
According to the FHP report, the truck’s GPS had instructed them to continue north until exit 193 before heading south toward Miami. The passenger said he did not expect Singh to attempt a U-turn at that location.
Crash Investigation Findings
FHP officials found no evidence of pre-collision braking or evasive maneuvers by either vehicle. The official report noted that the semi-truck was using a crossover designated for authorized vehicles only, not for general traffic.
The semi-truck and box trailer were carrying produce, having completed a delivery in Melbourne earlier that morning. The driver and passenger were en route to Miami for a second delivery, scheduled for the following day.
Legal Proceedings and Immigration Status
After the crash, Harjinder Singh, 28, was arrested on six charges, including three counts of vehicular homicide and three counts of manslaughter. He was booked into the St. Lucie County Jail on August 22, 2025. Singh is also being held on alleged immigration violations. For more on the legal aftermath and charges, see the driver charged after fatal Florida Turnpike crash in St. Lucie County.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) records show Singh entered the United States illegally from Mexico in 2018. He was released on an immigration bond and has a court date scheduled in 2027.
Use of Interpreters and Legal Representation
During his first court appearance on August 23, a Punjabi interpreter assisted Singh. He declined to speak with investigators, requesting an attorney before making any statements.
Aftermath: Driver and Passenger Leave State
Records indicate that Singh and his passenger left Florida the day after the crash. They flew from West Palm Beach to Sacramento, California, reportedly to reach a company lot where their employer’s trucks are parked. Both individuals were terminated by the trucking company following the incident.
Singh was later located in San Joaquin County, California. He agreed to waive extradition and was returned to Florida to face charges.
Political and Public Response
The case has drawn significant attention at both state and national levels, particularly regarding immigration enforcement. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis addressed the case in a televised interview, highlighting the immigration status of the accused driver.
Singh is currently being held without bail. The case continues to be monitored by local and federal authorities.
Ongoing Investigation and Evidence Collection
FHP investigators are seeking additional evidence, including a video reportedly showing the interior of the semi-truck during the crash. The video was mentioned by a tow truck company employee and is believed to have originated from social media. Authorities are working to obtain the original footage from the trucking company.
Officials confirmed that Singh had a valid commercial driver license, issued in January. The passenger had held a commercial license for seven to eight months and had been working with Singh for about two months prior to the crash.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deadly U-Turn Crash on Florida Turnpike
What happened during the deadly U-turn crash in St. Lucie County?
On August 12, 2025, a semi-truck attempted a U-turn on Florida’s Turnpike in St. Lucie County and was struck by a minivan. Three people in the minivan died as a result.
How many people died in the Florida Turnpike crash?
Three people died in the crash: two passengers and the driver of the minivan. All were pronounced dead either at the scene or after being taken to the hospital.
Are there any charges against the semi-truck driver involved in the crash?
Yes, Harjinder Singh, the semi-truck driver, faces three counts each of vehicular homicide and manslaughter. He is also being held for alleged immigration violations.
Can you explain why the driver attempted a U-turn?
The passenger in the semi-truck told investigators he was unsure why the driver tried to make a U-turn. The GPS had instructed them to continue north, and the passenger was not aware of the driver’s intentions.
Where are deadly crashes like this most common on the Treasure Coast?
Serious crashes sometimes occur at official-use-only turnarounds and on high-speed roadways like Florida’s Turnpike in St. Lucie County. Law enforcement advises drivers to avoid using unauthorized crossovers for safety reasons.
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