POLK CITY, FL — Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide detectives have arrested two men in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of a Polk City man earlier this year.
The investigation began during the early morning hours of April 23, 2026, when 39-year-old Brandon Roy Moran of Polk City was found deceased on Fussell Road near his four-wheeler. Evidence at the scene indicated that Moran had been struck by a vehicle that left the area.
Traffic Homicide investigators developed information suggesting a 2009-2014 Hyundai Sonata may have been involved. Detectives later identified a 2012 Hyundai Sonata registered in Auburndale and recovered evidence from the vehicle that confirmed it was involved in the fatal crash.
Through additional investigative work and interviews, detectives identified 52-year-old Richard Slaughter of Lakeland as the driver. Investigators also obtained cell phone records that placed Slaughter in the area at the time of the crash.
On June 23, detectives received information that Slaughter was staying at a residence on Fussell Road. Multiple deputies responded and surrounded the property. When contacted, resident Stanley Walker, 71, reportedly told deputies that Slaughter was not inside the home. After K-9 warnings were issued, Slaughter exited the residence and was taken into custody.
Slaughter was charged with Leaving the Scene of a Crash Involving Death, Operating a Vehicle as a Habitual Traffic Offender, and Resisting Without Violence.
Walker was arrested and charged with Accessory After the Fact to a First-Degree Felony. Both men were transported to the Polk County Sheriff’s Processing Center.
SOURCE: POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
