Lakeland, FL (May 5, 2025) – On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at approximately 12:09 p.m., officers responded to a traffic crash near the 2800 block of U.S. 98 North. Just prior to the crash, a 2012 silver Toyota Camry was exiting the Home Depot parking lot, 2800 U.S. Highway 98 North, facing westbound and attempting to make a left turn. At the same time, a 2003 silver Porsche 911 was traveling northbound in the inside lane of U.S. Highway 98 North. The Toyota entered the roadway westbound, and the front left bumper of the Toyota impacted the front right bumper of the Porsche.
The Lakeland Police Department Patrol Units, Polk County Fire Rescue, and the Lakeland Fire Department arrived on the scene to begin life-saving measures. The drivers of both vehicles were transported to Lakeland Regional Health for treatment of their injuries by medical professionals.
Members of the Traffic Homicide Unit responded to the scene and took over the investigation. The roadway was shut down for approximately two hours while the scene was processed.
On May 2, 2025, the driver of the Toyota succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased. On May 3, 2025, the driver of the Porsche succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.
This remains an open and active investigation. If anyone has any additional information regarding the crash, please contact investigating Officer Travis Payne at Travis.payne@lakelandgov.net.
The Toyota driver (deceased) was identified as:
Willie Williams
Age 71
Lakeland, FL
The Porsche operator (deceased) was identified as:
Craig Jensen
Age 67
Lakeland, FL
