LAKE WALES, FL – March 23, 2026 – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Investigations Unit is investigating a single-vehicle crash that occurred on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at approximately 11:15 p.m. at the intersection of Canal Road and Timberline Road in Lake Wales.
According to the PCSO, a 2022 Chevrolet Corvette driven by 20-year-old Enoch Hernandez of Bartow was traveling northbound on Timberline Road approaching the intersection with Canal Road. The north side of Canal Road features a significant drop-off and a water-filled area approximately 30 feet across, 200 feet long, and at least 5 feet deep.
Hernandez failed to stop at the stop sign, continued through the intersection, and entered the water-filled area. The vehicle rolled and came to rest partially submerged.
First responders pronounced Hernandez deceased at the scene. A passenger in the vehicle was airlifted to a local hospital with significant but non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to make a full recovery.
Both occupants were wearing seatbelts, and the vehicle’s airbags deployed during the crash.
The investigation remains ongoing. No additional details have been released. Nothing further at this time.
SOURCE: POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
