A manhunt is ongoing for Manmeet Singh, a Louisiana man indicted for vehicular manslaughter after a September wrong-way crash on Interstate 10 that killed 21-year-old Patricia Saidu, a recent college graduate. Singh faces charges including vehicular homicide, reckless operation, and driving in the wrong direction, with a felony warrant issued in late October.
Suspect Flees After Hospital Release
Singh, 30, was driving under the influence with a reported blood alcohol level of .21% when the crash occurred, according to Louisiana State Police. After sustaining serious injuries, he was hospitalized and released before law enforcement could initiate his arrest. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents attempted to apprehend him at his Ponchatoula home in early October but found him too injured to be taken into custody. Shortly afterwards, Singh fled the state and has not been located since.
Victim’s Family Responds Amid Reward Offer
Patricia Saidu, who died instantly in the crash after her vehicle caught fire, aspired to become a pediatrician. Her family, originally from Sierra Leone, has publicly mourned her loss and urged for Singh’s capture. Patricia’s mother described the ongoing search as a painful process. Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans is offering a reward for information leading to Singh’s arrest. Authorities involved in the manhunt include Louisiana State Police, ICE, and the U.S. Marshals Service New Orleans Task Force.
Legal Proceedings Pending
Singh was scheduled for a court appearance next week. Deputy U.S. Marshal Brian Fair noted that Singh left behind family in Ponchatoula, including a wife and young child, while the victim’s family continues to seek justice for the fatal collision.
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