Undocumented driver in deadly Florida U-Turn crash speaks English in New Mexico State Police bodycam

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New Mexico - The undocumented man accused of making an illegal U-turn that killed three people is seen speaking English in body camera video released by the New Mexico State Police Department.

According to the New Mexico State Police (NMSP) Department, on July 3, while driving a semi-truck, Harjinder Singh was pulled over for a traffic stop where he was issued a traffic citation.

As the officer issues the citation, Singh is seen and heard communicating with the officer in English.

Recently, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy outlined a plan to enforce federal English proficiency rules for commercial vehicle drivers. The move came after the deadly crash in St. Lucie County. Duffy also criticized California, New Mexico, and Washington for not following the rules as they apply to commercial drivers.

In August, following the deadly crash, Singh was tested by investigators with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for his English proficiency and road-sign skills. Singh allegedly failed badly, answering just 2 of 12 verbal questions correctly and identifying 1 of 4 traffic signs.

This led to the Department of Transportation and other federal agencies launching an investigation into how Singh managed to secure his commercial licenses in multiple states despite failing to meet federal safety standards.

NMSP said during the July 3 traffic stop, an English Language Proficiency (ELP) test wouldn't have been needed due to there being no communication issues when the officer spoke with Singh. The law enforcement agency continues that ELP assessments are only required when there is a challenge in communication.

On August 12, Harjinder Singh, 28, was operating a 2024 International semi-tractor-trailer near mile marker 171 when he attempted an illegal U-turn in an “official use only” area. His trailer crossed all northbound lanes of traffic, directly into the path of a 2015 Chrysler Town & Country minivan. The van became wedged under the trailer, killing all three occupants.

Following the crash, he was charged with three counts of vehicular homicide.