Unlicensed Truck Driver in Overturned U.S. Mail Crash on I-5 Freeway, Willows
WILLOWS, Calif. (June 11, 2026) — Manmeet Singh, 26, of Sacramento, was identified by authorities as the driver of a U.S. mail big rig truck that overturned Wednesday night on Interstate 5 Freeway in Glenn County.
The collision triggered a multi-hour freeway closure and raised concerns after investigators said he was unlicensed.
According to the California Highway Patrol, Singh was driving the commercial truck northbound on Interstate 5 just south of County Road 68 near Willows when the crash happened around 11:45 p.m. The tractor-trailer overturned and landed on its side, completely shutting down the northbound lanes of the freeway for several hours.
Singh suffered minor injuries and was taken to Enloe Medical Center in Chico for treatment, officials said.
Authorities have not released details on what caused the crash, but the CHP confirmed Singh did not possess the proper license to operate the commercial vehicle.
The wreckage blocked traffic overnight as crews worked to clear the scene and recover the mail truck. Caltrans reported one northbound lane reopened by about 5 a.m., while all lanes resumed normal operations around 7:40 a.m. Thursday.
California Trucking Safety
The crash has renewed scrutiny over commercial truck safety and licensing enforcement on California highways.
“An unlicensed truck driver operating a commercial big rig is a serious danger to everyone on the road,” said attorney James Johnson of Johnson Attorneys Group. “These vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, and proper training and licensing exist for a reason. When those safeguards fail, the outcome can be devastating. Thankfully, this incident did not end in tragedy.”
Johnson said trucking companies and drivers share a responsibility to ensure commercial operators meet licensing requirements before getting behind the wheel.
The CHP investigation remains ongoing, and it is unclear whether Singh could face citations or additional penalties related to the incident.
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When it matters most, trust Attorney James Johnson at Johnson Attorneys Group. We are a personal injury law firm serving clients who have been injured throughout California due to negligent motorists. If you were hurt in this collision, call 1-(800) 208-3538. We will request the police report, and the attorney will discuss your options. You are under no obligation to hire us, and there is no cost unless we win your case. Our personal injury law firm is a proud, longtime supporter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
