Federal authorities have identified the truck driver charged with causing a deadly collision that killed a newlywed couple as an illegal immigrant from India who obtained his commercial license in California.

According to a New York Post report, the incident occurred on Nov. 24 in Bend, Oregon, where the driver jackknifed his semi-truck and struck the victims' vehicle. The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the driver's illegal status and issued an immigration detainer.

The victims, William Carter and his new wife Jennifer Lower, died in the horrific crash. Officials noted that the driver had been released into the U.S. by the Biden administration prior to the event.

Driver's Background Under Scrutiny

Rajinder Kumar, 32, an Indian national, was arrested following the collision. He had been granted work authorization and a commercial driver's license in California in 2023.

This case highlights ongoing concerns about illegal immigrants operating large vehicles. Federal officials pointed out that Kumar's situation fits a pattern of similar incidents involving migrants released under previous policies.

DHS officials described Kumar as a criminal illegal alien from India. They criticized California's Department of Motor Vehicles for issuing the license under Gov. Gavin Newsom's administration.

Pattern of Similar Incidents Emerges

Kumar joins a list of illegal migrants arrested for fatal wrecks. Immigration authorities noted several recent cases where such individuals caused deadly accidents after being allowed into the country.

In August, Harjinder Singh, another illegal migrant, was arrested for a Florida crash that killed three people. That same month, Partap Singh from India allegedly triggered a multi-car pileup in California, severely injuring a 5-year-old.

In October, Jashanpreet Singh faced charges for a drunken crash in California that resulted in three deaths. These examples underscore federal worries about road safety and immigration enforcement.

Federal Response Gains Momentum

DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin condemned the release of such individuals. She questioned how many more tragedies must occur before changes in sanctuary policies.

“Our prayers are with William and Jennifer’s families,” McLaughlin stated. “Under Secretary [Kristi] Noem, ICE will continue its efforts to get illegal alien truck drivers off America’s highways.”

McLaughlin specifically blamed the Biden administration for Kumar's entry. She highlighted the role of California's DMV in providing him with driving privileges.

Lessons to Learn

1. Verify driver's credentials when hiring for transportation. Whether hiring movers or transport drivers, it's worth checking that the driver is authorized and properly certified. In this case, even though the driver had a state-issued license, deeper background checks could have revealed red flags.

2. Advocate for transparent licensing processes. Residents should feel empowered to speak out when government policies might endanger public safety. Participation in local government discussions around licensing and immigration law can influence safer roads for everyone.

3. Tragedies can be unpredictable. Whether a driver is licensed or not, no one can control another person’s actions. We must never blame victims for the crimes committed against them. Continued awareness and better policies are necessary to help all of us feel safer.

Why This Story Matters

This story raises critical questions about public safety, immigration enforcement, and how state DMV policies are impacting roads nationwide. With lives hanging in the balance, public pressure is growing for greater accountability in how commercial drivers are screened and authorized. The deaths of William and Jennifer serve as a devastating reminder of what’s at stake. Ultimately, this story reveals the urgent need for dialogue between state and federal agencies to ensure lives are not needlessly lost on America's highways.

Conclusion

On Nov. 24, authorities say a semi-truck jackknifed in Bend, Oregon, killing newlyweds William Carter and Jennifer Lower. The driver, Rajinder Kumar, was in the country illegally and had been granted a commercial license and work permit in California under current policies. DHS has now issued an immigration detainer and vowed to remove similar drivers from public roads. The incident follows multiple recent deadly crashes involving undocumented commercial drivers, raising concerns about state and federal protocols. As the investigation continues, federal and local officials are under increasing pressure to implement safeguards that could prevent future loss of life.