Driver Identified and Charged in Deadly Chain-Reaction Crash on Interstate 10 in Ontario
Authorities have identified the driver involved in Tuesday’s fatal multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 10 in Ontario as 21-year-old Jashanpreet Singh, who now faces multiple felony charges in connection with the tragic crash.
According to a criminal complaint filed by the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, Singh has been formally charged with gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and driving under the influence of a drug causing injury. The charges stem from a devastating chain-reaction crash that occurred earlier this week, resulting in at least one death and several injuries.
The incident unfolded on Tuesday morning when Singh, reportedly driving under the influence of a controlled substance, lost control of his vehicle while traveling eastbound on the I-10. The loss of control triggered a violent series of collisions involving multiple cars and commercial vehicles. The force of the impact led to significant wreckage across several lanes, causing hours of closure and massive traffic delays as emergency crews worked to assist victims and clear the roadway.
First responders from the California Highway Patrol, Ontario Fire Department, and paramedic units rushed to the scene. Despite their rapid response, one victim succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. Several others were treated for moderate to serious injuries and transported to nearby hospitals for care.
Following an on-scene investigation, Singh was taken into custody under suspicion of impaired driving. Preliminary toxicology reports and witness statements suggested that Singh was under the influence of an unspecified drug at the time of the crash. Authorities later confirmed that sufficient evidence existed to file felony charges.
If convicted, Singh could face a lengthy prison sentence for the gross vehicular manslaughter charge, as California law treats fatalities caused by impaired driving as a serious violent offense. The gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated charge carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years or more in state prison, depending on the circumstances and any prior record.
The crash has deeply shaken the Ontario community and reignited public concern over the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Officials have once again urged motorists to make responsible decisions and to never operate a vehicle while impaired.
The California Highway Patrol and the District Attorney’s Office continue to investigate the crash, reconstructing the sequence of events that led to the deadly chain reaction. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased pending notification of next of kin.
As the case moves forward through the court system, Singh remains in custody awaiting arraignment.
The tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of how one reckless decision can have irreversible consequences — claiming lives, devastating families, and leaving lasting scars on a community.