Morgantown, WV (March 5, 2025) — A New York truck driver has been charged with negligent homicide for his role in a fatal crash on Cheat Lake Bridge that resulted in the death of 39-year-old Kevin Lataille. The January 19 crash, which initially left Lataille missing, is now confirmed to have been caused by the reckless driving of Sukhjinder Singh, according to the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office.
Incident Overview: Authorities report that Singh was driving a tractor-trailer on Cheat Lake Bridge when he lost control of his vehicle during severe snowstorm conditions. Investigators reviewed surveillance footage that showed a large vehicle sliding, kicking up snow, and a separate passenger vehicle falling from the bridge into Cheat Lake.
Lataille, a resident of Smithfield, Pennsylvania, was reported missing later that day after failing to return home from his shift at Eat ‘N Park in Morgantown. On January 23, police tracked his last known location to Cheat Lake Bridge. Drone footage later confirmed that his vehicle was submerged in the lake, leading to a recovery mission on January 26.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: Law enforcement officials determined that Singh was driving recklessly despite hazardous weather conditions, which directly led to Lataille’s death. Additional findings suggest that despite the dangerous snowstorm conditions, Singh failed to adjust his speed. Singh’s truck had previously struck another vehicle before reaching Cheat Lake Bridge, but he continued driving. Witnesses described Singh’s driving as reckless and criminal, further corroborated by footage of the truck losing control and the passenger vehicle falling from the bridge.
Singh, who was arrested on February 28, now faces negligent homicide charges, with additional charges pending. Lataille’s family may have grounds for a wrongful death claim, seeking compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional distress.
This devastating accident highlights the dangers of reckless truck driving, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The family and friends of Kevin Lataille are in my thoughts as they grieve this tragic loss.
Source: CBS News