A 33-year-old Indian man has been indicted on multiple felony charges after a high-speed police pursuit in Ohio ended in a crash that killed a pregnant teenager and her unborn child.
Tarsem Singh appeared in court in Darke County this week, where he was formally charged over the February incident that claimed the life of 17-year-old Ashlee Holmes.
Authorities allege Singh fled from police at speeds exceeding 120mph before crashing into another vehicle, causing Holmes – who was a passenger -to be thrown from the SUV.
It is reported Homes was pronounced dead at the scene; her unborn child also did not survive.
A grand jury has indicted Singh on eight charges, including two counts each of involuntary manslaughter, reckless homicide and aggravated vehicular homicide, along with charges of vehicular assault and failing to comply with a police order.
He appeared via video link with the assistance of an interpreter before Judge Travis Fliehman, who outlined the charges in court.
Singh confirmed he is not a US citizen.
The court increased his bond to $1 million following a request from prosecutors. Defence lawyer Alexander Pendl said Singh was in the United States on a work visa and did not have the financial means to meet the bond, adding that the case was still at an early stage and that his client was presumed innocent.
Under the bond conditions, Singh must maintain regular contact with his lawyer, undergo any recommended substance abuse or mental health treatment, submit to random testing, and avoid contact with the victim’s family if released.
According to the Darke County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began on 16 February when a deputy attempted to stop a vehicle travelling at 79mph in a 55mph zone. Police said the driver accelerated away, leading officers on a pursuit lasting less than three minutes and spanning several miles.
The chase ended when the SUV left the roadway and overturned after colliding with another vehicle at an intersection. Singh and the other driver were taken to hospital with injuries, while Holmes died at the scene.
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement has lodged a detainer against Singh, meaning he could face deportation proceedings after the criminal case concludes.
His next court appearance is scheduled for 3 April.
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