Deadly semi truck crash on I-10 near Willcox damages overpass; highway reopens

WILLCOX, Ariz. - A semi-truck crashed into a pillar holding up a highway overpass near Willcox early Wednesday morning, leaving at least one person dead and shutting down Interstate 10 and US 191.

The collision happened just after midnight on I-10 near milepost 331 after the semi reportedly drifted off the right side of the highway. It struck a guardrail and slammed into a pillar supporting the State Route 191 overpass, according to the Arizona Dept. of Public Safety.

The truck burst into flames, adding more damage to the bridge.

The semi-driver was killed in the crash. He was identified as 24-year-old Simranjit Singh of Calimesa, California.

Traffic was rerouted for around two days while construction crews made repairs to the bridge.

"An ADOT contractor is mobilizing personnel, equipment and materials needed to shore up the bridge," the department said. "This work will begin Wednesday afternoon and will continue around the clock until ADOT can safely reopen the westbound freeway."

I-10 westbound has reopened just west of Willcox, and US 191 is closed in both directions at the I-10 junction. 

Family of semi driver speaks

On May 11, we heard from family and friends of Singh, who say the man was the provider of his family, supporting his parents and India and his sister in Canada.

"I used to call him four or five times every day," said Singh's younger sister, Ramandeep Kaur.

Kaur said she spoke with Singh just hours prior to the crash.

"I thought maybe he was sleeping, so I again called him at 12 o'clock or something, and he was not taking my call," said Kaur.

Kaur later got a call from her mother in India, explaining that happened.

"It could be possible that he passed out or went to sleep or one of those things. Everything is speculation at this time, but that's what we're thinking," said Gurpreet Singh, a close friend of the victim.

Only parts of Singh's remains were found in the fire. Family and friends are holding on to the memories they share with him, describing Singh as educated and kind.

"He used to live with me, then he goes for his job. It was a very big loss for the family and everybody in the community. He was very helpful to all the people," said Maninder Singh, a member of Singh's family.

"He always taught me to study, like, do whatever you want to do, just be on a good path, be a good human, help everyone," said Kaur.

Following the crash, those who knew Singh have advice for others.

"If you're feeling sleepy, take a break. Don't go and jeopardize your life, it's not worth it," said Gurpreet.