Truck Driver Arrested and Charged in Fatal Autoroute 20 Hit-and-Run

Fatal Collision Prompts Extensive Police Search

A truck driver has been apprehended and formally charged following a fatal hit-and-run accident that tragically occurred on Autoroute 20 in Quebec. The incident, which resulted in the death of a motorist, initiated a significant police investigation by the Sûreté du Québec (Quebec Provincial Police) to locate the individual responsible for fleeing the scene of the collision.

The tragic event unfolded on Autoroute 20, specifically near the Saint-Hyacinthe area. Initial reports indicated a severe collision involving a heavy commercial vehicle and another passenger vehicle. Immediately after the impact, the driver of the truck allegedly left the scene without stopping to offer assistance or provide their information, which is a serious breach of legal and ethical obligations in Canada. This act of fleeing the scene, particularly after a fatal incident, triggered an immediate and widespread search for the driver and the involved vehicle.

Investigation Leads to Arrest in Outaouais

Authorities quickly launched an extensive investigation, gathering evidence from the accident site and appealing to the public for any information that could help identify the suspect or the truck involved. Police investigators meticulously worked to piece together the events leading to the collision and trace the whereabouts of the driver who had left. Their dedicated efforts paid off when the suspect was eventually located and arrested in the Outaouais region of Quebec.

The individual arrested has been identified as Jatinder Singh, a truck driver reportedly from Ontario. He now faces serious accusations in connection with the fatal incident. Specifically, Mr. Singh has been formally accused of a fatal hit-and-run, an offense commonly known as “délit de fuite mortel” in French. This charge is applied when a driver is alleged to have left the scene of an accident where a death has occurred, failing to fulfill their legal duty to remain present and provide assistance or information. Such an offense carries very severe penalties under the Criminal Code of Canada.

What happens next

Jatinder Singh is expected to appear in court to formally answer to the charges laid against him. The legal proceedings will involve further investigation by the police and prosecutors, potential bail hearings, and ultimately, a trial. During these proceedings, the full circumstances surrounding the accident and the alleged flight from the scene will be presented. The court will then determine the appropriate legal consequences based on the evidence and applicable laws.