AUBURNDALE, FL – A fatal traffic crash occurred on Friday, March 12, 2026, at approximately 4:55 PM on the Polk Parkway near milepost 17, south of US-92 in Auburndale.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by a 54-year-old man from Winter Haven, was traveling westbound on SR-570. A Kia Optima, driven by a 30-year-old man from Lakeland, was traveling westbound on SR-570 behind the motorcycle.
While transitioning from a concrete CSX railway overpass to an asphalt road surface, the rider lost control of the Harley Davidson motorcycle. The rider and his passenger were ejected onto the roadway. The passenger, a 58-year-old woman from Winter Haven, was then struck by the Kia Optima.
The passenger suffered fatal injuries at the scene. The rider suffered serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital. The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating. Nothing further at this time.
SOURCE: FLORIDA HIGHWAY PATROL
