A Whitehorse taxi driver, Amanpreet Singh Brar, has been sentenced to two months of house arrest by Yukon Territorial Court Judge David Christie for causing a fatal crash on the Alaska Highway last fall. The crash resulted in the death of Richard “Ricky” John, a traditional knowledge keeper from White River First Nation. Singh Brar pleaded guilty to careless driving, a violation of the Yukon’s Motor Vehicles Act, following the collision between his taxi and an oncoming mini-van on September 28, 2025.
The collision led to the tragic death of 64-year-old Richard John and his dog Bubbles, while Singh Brar and his passenger sustained injuries. Both the prosecution and defense recommended the two-month house arrest sentence for Singh Brar, which permits him to leave his residence for work and medical appointments but prohibits him from driving.
During the incident, Singh Brar crossed a double-solid line to pick up a passenger on the highway’s side in the Crestview subdivision and continued driving in the wrong lane for approximately 10 seconds before the collision occurred. Forensic analysis revealed that neither vehicle braked nor swerved before the crash.
Richard John, who was driving in the correct lane at the time, was a respected member of the White River First Nation and a candidate for chief. His family and community members highlighted his significant role as a traditional knowledge holder who actively lived out the cultural values and practices of their community.
John’s family expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the impact of his character and contributions to their lives. The community also mourned John’s passing, noting the profound effect it had on White River First Nation, as well as communities in Yukon and Alaska, evoking feelings of grief, fear, and frustration with the justice system.
During the sentencing hearing, Singh Brar did not speak, but his defense lawyer conveyed his emotional distress and physical injuries sustained in the accident. The defense highlighted Singh Brar’s clean record prior to the crash and his decision to discontinue his taxi driving career following the incident.
Judge Christie acknowledged Singh Brar’s remorse and positive character traits, stating that aside from this tragic mistake, he appeared to be a person of good standing. The territorial Crown dropped two other charges against Singh Brar as part of the sentencing process.