Federal investigators are examining whether Modou Ngom, the truck driver responsible for a fatal crash on I-71, committed fraud related to his citizenship, driver’s license, and commercial driver’s license. The investigation follows revelations of multiple identities and discrepancies in his records.

Deadly I-71 Crash and Initial Reports

Federal investigators are intensifying their scrutiny of Modou Ngom, the truck driver implicated in a devastating chain-reaction crash on Interstate 71 earlier this month. The crash tragically claimed the lives of Lynnea Soposki, Luke Soposki, and their one-year-old son, Logan. The Ohio State Highway Patrol were among the first responders to the scene.

Initial reports from Ngom indicated he attempted to avoid a collision with a vehicle ahead of his semi-truck. He stated in a recorded statement that the driver of the car in front of him lost control, impacting a wall and swerving into his path. Ngom claimed he was attempting to steer clear of the vehicle but was unable to avoid a collision.

Prosecutor's Dispute and Multiple Identities

However, prosecutors now dispute this account, asserting that Ngom made no discernible effort to apply the brakes before the impact. The indictment further reveals that Ngom also operates under the name Lamine Gaye.

History of Discrepancies and Fraud Allegations

A thorough investigation by ABC6 has uncovered a complex history surrounding Ngom’s identity and professional credentials. Records indicate that Lamine Gaye initially registered a trucking company, MFW Carrier, with the state of Ohio in 2013. Modou Ngom was subsequently added to the company’s registration records in 2015.

Prior to these registrations, in 2007, court documents show Gaye received a speeding ticket while operating another semi-truck in Franklin County. During the proceedings, he signed a document affirming his U.S. citizenship. However, investigators have since determined this claim to be false.

In 2014, a judge amended the 2007 case file, noting the court accepted the defendant’s assertion that he ‘did not mean to mislead the court’ regarding his citizenship status. Further complicating matters, the USDOT database lacks a USDOT number associated with Lamine Gaye, but one is listed for Modou Ngom.

Prior Incidents and Driving History

Separately, Ngom was convicted in 2024 for operating an unsafe vehicle – specifically, his semi-truck – during a separate incident in Delaware County. This prior crash was not included in his federal transportation profile.

A request by ABC6 for Ngom’s complete driving history revealed a pattern of crashes and driving convictions documented under both Modou Ngom and Lamine Gaye. The Ohio BMV redacted the name at the top of the document to protect the identity listed on the official record.

Expanded Investigation and Agency Involvement

The investigation has now expanded to encompass allegations of fraud related to Ngom’s acquisition of citizenship, his driver’s license, and his commercial driver’s license. This development has prompted the involvement of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security, and the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Additional court records have surfaced, revealing discrepancies in Ngom’s reported date of birth. An individual identified as Modou Ngom was charged by Ohio BMV agents in 2002 with providing a fraudulent insurance policy in an attempt to obtain a driver’s license, ultimately being convicted on a lesser charge.

In 2003, investigators allege that Ngom deliberately altered his date of birth to secure both a standard driver’s license and, subsequently, a commercial driver’s license. This pattern of alleged deception raises serious questions about the thoroughness of vetting procedures for commercial drivers and the potential risks to public safety.

The ongoing federal investigation aims to determine the extent of Ngom’s alleged fraudulent activities and whether he intentionally misrepresented his identity and qualifications to operate a commercial vehicle. The case highlights the critical importance of verifying the credentials of commercial drivers to prevent future tragedies and ensure the safety of all road users. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as authorities continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses.