By Mia Gutierrez, November 4, 2025
A semi-truck driver killed three people and injured four in an eight-vehicle accident just east of Milliken Avenue on the westbound side of I-10 around 1:10 p.m. on Oct.21.
The accident occurred at around 1:10 p.m., just east of Milliken Avenue, causing vehicles to catch fire.
California Highway Patrol officers identified the driver as 21-year-old Jashanpreet Singh from Yuba City, California. He was arrested and charged with vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence of drugs, according to multiple news outlets including ABC 7.
Dash camera footage showed Singh driving at high speed toward the stopped vehicles with no intention of stopping or slowing down, causing the collision and vehicles to burst into flames.
The victims were identified as Pomona High School basketball coach Clarence Nelson, 76, and his wife Lisa Nelson, 69. Both victims were Fontana residents. The third victim was a 54-year-old man from Upland whose identity has not yet been released.
San Bernadino County Public Affairs Officer Jacquelyn Rodriguez stated Singh was arraigned Oct.24 at the Rancho Cucamonga Superior Courthouse with no set bail. He plead not guilty, according to ABC7 news officials.
“The investigation was exclusively handled by the California Highway Patrol as accidents on the freeway thoroughfares fall under their jurisdiction,” said Ontario Police Department Lieutenant Melissa E. Ramirez.
The collision closed all westbound lanes during rush hour until the next day with delays, causing drivers to find new routes to get to their destination, according to a CBS News article.
Cal Poly Pomona students who take I-10 to campus also faced their own challenges, making them late or unable to attend classes due to the traffic delay.
Political science student Dominica Cerda was one of many CPP students who struggled getting to class last Tuesday.
“Typically, I take the 10 freeway, and it takes me about 20 minutes to get to campus,” Cerda said. “However, on this day, it said it was going to take me almost an hour due to having to take the 60 then the 71, which takes long due to the construction.”
“This tragic crash serves as a reminder of the importance of sober driving,” said California Highway Patrol Captain Salvador Suarez.
About 34 people die in the U.S. due to drunk-driving incidents every day, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Its website offers multiple resources regarding the risks of driving under the influence and how to remain safe.
Using rideshare services, as well as having a designated driver remain sober throughout the night, are some options to remain safe and responsible.
“The California Highway Patrol urges all motorists to remain alert, obey posted speed limits and exercise caution to help prevent future crashes,” Captain Suarez said.
Feature image courtesy of Bill Melugin
