NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Fort Pierce, FL, August 25. 2025: A petition urging Florida officials to show leniency toward Harjinder Singh, a truck driver accused of causing a crash that killed three people, has gathered unprecedented support, with more than 2.5 million signatures as of Sunday.
Singh, 28, was arrested after his truck made a dangerous U-turn on the Florida Turnpike on August 12, leading to a collision that claimed three lives. Authorities said Singh, who entered the United States illegally in 2018 and later obtained a commercial driver’s license in California, is facing charges of vehicular homicide and immigration violations. He could face up to 45 years in prison if convicted, and is currently being held without bond.
The petition, launched on Change.org by a group called Collective Punjabi Youth, describes the crash as “a tragic accident, not a deliberate act,” and appeals to Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Board of Executive Clemency to consider a fairer sentence. Supporters argue Singh has no prior criminal history and should not be treated as a hardened criminal.
In Punjab, India, villagers from Singh’s hometown of Rataul have held prayer meetings for him, while local leaders have appealed for compassion. Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal has called on U.S. authorities to view the case from a humanitarian perspective.
At the same time, the campaign has sparked backlash. A counter-petition started by a truck driver in the U.S. has gathered nearly 20,000 signatures, calling for the deportation of Singh’s supporters and insisting that justice be served for the victims’ families.
The case has touched off an emotional debate about immigration, accountability, and fairness in sentencing. While millions are urging clemency, critics say petitions cannot erase the fact that three lives were lost.
Florida officials have not yet commented on whether public petitions could influence Singh’s trial or potential sentencing.
Cover photo: St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.
