LAKE WALES, FL — The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Investigations Unit is investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred early Wednesday morning in Lake Wales.
The incident took place around 3:20 a.m. on February 25, 2026, at the intersection of State Road 60 West and West Lake Wales Road North.
According to the PCSO, a 2026 Freightliner semi-truck traveling east on SR 60 was struck from behind by a 2022 Kia K5 sedan, which was also heading east on the roadway. For reasons still under investigation, the Kia collided with the rear of the semi-truck.
The driver of the Kia, a 32-year-old man from Bartow, was pronounced deceased at the scene upon arrival of first responders. His passenger, a 37-year-old woman from Winter Haven, sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The driver of the Kia was not wearing a seatbelt, though the vehicle’s airbags deployed during the impact, according to the PCSO.
The semi-truck driver was not mentioned as injured in the initial details provided by authorities.
The investigation into the cause of the crash remains ongoing. Nothing further at this time.
SOURCE: POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
EDITOR’S NOTE: Our team extends its condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased.
