AUBURNDALE, FL — The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Investigations Unit is investigating a fatal crash involving a bicyclist that occurred early Sunday morning, June 7, 2026, in Auburndale.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred at approximately 1:40 a.m. on U.S. Highway 92, about 500 feet west of the Polk Parkway. A 56-year-old Auburndale man was driving a 2007 Mercedes-Benz eastbound on U.S. 92 when he struck a bicyclist from behind. Both the vehicle and bicycle were traveling eastbound in the inside lane of the highway at the time of the collision.
The bicyclist, described as a middle-aged adult male, died at the scene. Investigators believe the man may have been homeless. His identity has not yet been confirmed, and efforts are underway to notify next of kin.
Detectives reported the bicyclist was wearing dark clothing and was not wearing reflective gear or a helmet. The bicycle also did not appear to be equipped with lights or reflectors.
Preliminary findings indicate that neither impairment nor excessive speed on the part of the Mercedes driver appear to be factors in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.
SOURCE: POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
