FT. MEADE, FL – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Investigations Unit is investigating a single-vehicle crash that resulted in the death of a driver Tuesday morning in Ft. Meade.
The crash occurred on May 5, 2026, at approximately 11:18 a.m. at the intersection of Alturas Babson Park Cutoff Road and 80 Foot Road.
According to the PCSO, evidence at the scene indicates a 2014 silver Nissan four-door sedan was traveling westbound on Alturas Babson Park Cutoff Road at a high rate of speed when, for unknown reasons, the vehicle exited the right side of the roadway and struck a large metal utility pole.
Investigators said there were no brake marks at the scene indicating any attempt to stop before impact. The utility pole was described as a large metal transmission-line pole with an approximately 3-foot base.
After impact, the Nissan sustained significant front-end damage and caught fire, fully engulfing the vehicle and surrounding grass.
First responders extinguished the fire and confirmed one fatality inside the vehicle. Due to the extensive burns, investigators said the occupant was unrecognizable but appears to be an adult. A positive identification is pending an autopsy.
Authorities also said it is unknown whether the driver was wearing a seatbelt or if any airbags deployed because of the extensive fire damage to the vehicle. Nothing further at this time.
SOURCE: POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
