California: A 21-year-old Indian-origin man, identified as Jashanpreet Singh, has been arrested in the United States following a fatal road accident on California’s 10 Freeway that left three people dead and at least four others injured.

According to media reports, Singh, reportedly a Sikh, had immigrated to the US illegally in 2022 and was driving a heavy truck under the influence of drugs when the incident occurred. The collision, which took place in Ontario, California, was captured on a dashcam video showing the truck crashing into multiple vehicles along the freeway.

Eyewitnesses and police officials said that the truck appeared to be travelling at high speed before losing control and striking several cars. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but three victims were pronounced dead on-site, while four others sustained serious injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals.

Authorities have confirmed that Singh is currently in custody and faces multiple charges, including vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence. Investigators are also examining his immigration status and possible violations related to commercial driving regulations.

The shocking incident has reignited discussions over road safety and drug use among commercial drivers in the United States, particularly within long-haul trucking routes that pass through major interstate corridors like the 10 Freeway.

The Ontario Police Department reported that the crash occurred during the early morning hours, resulting in a multiple-vehicle pile-up that blocked traffic for several hours. Preliminary toxicology tests indicated that the driver was under the influence of controlled substances at the time of the accident.

Singh, who allegedly entered the US illegally three years ago, was employed informally within the trucking industry. US media outlets have highlighted concerns about unlicensed or improperly trained drivers operating under subcontract arrangements in some freight networks.

The dashcam footage, circulated widely on social media and by local outlets, showed the truck veering abruptly before impact. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) and local prosecutors have initiated a joint investigation into the incident.

Authorities have urged witnesses to come forward as the inquiry continues. The tragedy follows other recent incidents involving commercial drivers, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of substance testing and immigration compliance within the trucking sector.