Florida Lieutenant Governor Escorts Undocumented Trucker From California After Fatal Crash

Florida Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins traveled to California on Thursday to personally escort an undocumented truck driver accused of causing a deadly crash back to Florida.

Authorities say Harshinder Singh made an illegal U-turn in a tractor trailer on the Florida Turnpike, colliding with a minivan and killing three people. Singh, who came to the U.S. illegally in 2018, had obtained a California commercial driver’s license.

Before boarding a plane with Singh for their return, Collins addressed reporters, stressing Florida’s commitment to strict immigration enforcement.

“That is why I’m here today, to make sure this guy is brought to justice right back in Florida, to let our folks know we will go to any step necessary to make sure that freedom remains, that justice is served, and the rule of law is held accountable,” Collins said.

The lieutenant governor also used the press conference to criticize California Gov. Gavin Newsom, calling his immigration policies “failed” and blaming them for allowing Singh to secure a commercial driver’s license.

Florida officials say Singh will face trial in connection with the crash, which has fueled ongoing debate over immigration enforcement and the responsibilities of states when licensing commercial drivers.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.