In a heartfelt tribute to a fallen hero, a section of a California highway has been officially named after Ronil Singh, a 33-year-old Indian-origin police officer. Corporal Ronil Singh tragically lost his life in 2018 when he was fatally shot by an illegal immigrant while serving with the Newman Police Department.This dedication took place on Highway 33 in Newman, and it now proudly bears the name "Corporal Ronil Singh Memorial Highway," as signified by prominent signage at the intersection of Highway 33 and Stuhr Road.Corporal Singh, originally from Fiji, began his service with the police force in July 2011. His life was cut short on December 26, 2018, when he was fatally shot by a suspected drunk driver. A three-day manhunt ultimately led to the apprehension of the perpetrator, Paulo Virgen Mendoza, at a relative's residence in Kern County. Mendoza pleaded guilty to Singh's murder in November 2020 and received a life sentence without the possibility of parole.The unveiling of the memorial highway sign was marked by a special ceremony held in conjunction with the community's Tunnel to Towers 5K walk and run event. Present at the ceremony were Corporal Singh's wife, Anamika, and their son, Arnav, who was only five months old when his father tragically lost his life. The event also saw the participation of other family members, colleagues from the Newman Police Department, and several officials, including county Supervisor Channce Condit, state Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil, US Representative John Duarte, and Assemblyman Juan Alanis.Messages of love and remembrance were inscribed on the back of the memorial sign, including a touching message from Arnav that reads, "Love you Papa."This gesture of renaming the highway serves as a meaningful and enduring tribute to Corporal Ronil Singh's service and sacrifice, ensuring that his memory continues to inspire and live on in the hearts of the community and all those who knew him.
