LODI — A tragic multi-vehicle crash on Highway 99 Tuesday afternoon has left two people dead and resulted in the arrest of a semi-truck driver now facing several felony charges. Authorities identified the driver as 24-year-old Manvir Singh, who was taken into custody following the devastating collision that shut down northbound traffic for hours and shocked the local community.
According to officials, the deadly crash happened around 12:20 p.m. in the northbound lanes of Highway 99 near Harney Lane. Investigators with the California Highway Patrol said Singh was driving a semi-truck when the vehicle reportedly skidded off the highway and slammed into a guardrail. Moments later, the truck became involved in a violent four-vehicle collision involving three additional vehicles. Emergency responders rushed to the scene as debris scattered across the roadway and traffic quickly came to a standstill.
Authorities say two people lost their lives in the collision. Their identities have not yet been released as officials work to notify family members. Details regarding possible injuries to other drivers or passengers involved in the crash have also not yet been made public. Investigators spent several hours examining the scene as crews worked to remove damaged vehicles and clear the roadway.
Following the crash, officials allege that Singh attempted to flee the area instead of remaining at the scene. Law enforcement officers later located and arrested him Tuesday evening. According to San Joaquin County Jail records, Singh was booked into custody around 6:35 p.m. He is now facing felony charges including vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and hit-and-run resulting in death. Authorities say the investigation into the fatal collision remains ongoing.
The deadly incident forced all northbound lanes of Highway 99 to close for several hours Tuesday afternoon and evening, causing heavy traffic delays throughout the area. Drivers were rerouted as investigators documented evidence and cleanup crews worked to remove wreckage from the highway. Officials confirmed the roadway finally reopened around 9:10 p.m., nearly nine hours after the crash first occurred.
As the investigation continues, many questions still remain about what led to the deadly collision. Singh’s bail has been set at $185,000, and he is expected to appear in court on Thursday. Meanwhile, the families of the victims are left grieving an unimaginable loss as the Lodi community mourns another tragic accident that claimed innocent lives far too soon.
