Partap Singh, an illegal immigrant from India, caused a devastating multi-car pileup on 20 June 2024 while driving a commercial 18-wheeler in California, forever changing the life of five-year-old Dalilah Coleman and her family.
Singh, who had crossed the southern border illegally in October 2022, was issued a commercial driver’s licence by the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
It is reported that investigators say he drove at unsafe speeds and failed to stop for traffic and a construction zone. The crash injured several people, including Dalilah’s stepfather, Michael Krause, and left Dalilah with critical, life-altering injuries.
Dalilah was airlifted to hospital in a coma, suffering skull fractures, a broken femur, and other severe trauma. She underwent a craniectomy, leaving her without half of her skull for four months, and spent six months in intensive care before returning home. She now faces lifelong therapy for diplegic cerebral palsy, global developmental delay, and continued challenges with walking, speaking, and eating.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department led the investigation, which was referred to the district attorney’s office. On 29 August 2025, ICE arrested Singh in Fresno under a federal warrant. He remains in custody pending immigration proceedings.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem condemned the incident, saying,
“This tragedy was entirely preventable. DHS is working around the clock to remove dangerous individuals who have no right to be in the U.S.”
Dalilah’s father, Marcus Coleman, spoke publicly about the impact of the crash on his daughter’s life. “Every day is a challenge for Dalilah,” he said.
“She is a bright, brave little girl, but she will need care and therapy for the rest of her life. No parent should have to go through this.”
The US authorities emphasised that Singh’s immigration and legal status will be determined through federal proceedings, while the case continues to draw attention to public safety concerns and licensing regulations in California.
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