Lake Wales, FL – Tuesday, July 29 – A head-on collision on State Road 60 East near Story Road early Tuesday morning resulted in one driver being airlifted to a hospital in critical condition, according to the Polk County Traffic Unit.
The incident occurred around 5:00 a.m., when a 2011 black Ford Escape, driven by a 58-year-old man from Lake Wales, crossed into the eastbound lanes while traveling westbound. The Ford struck a silver 2012 Jeep Wrangler driven by a 25-year-old man from Haines City, who was heading east. Authorities say the Jeep driver attempted to swerve to avoid the oncoming vehicle but was unable to prevent the impact.
Both vehicles sustained severe damage to their left front ends. The Ford driver, who was not wearing a seat belt, suffered significant injuries and was transported by air to Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center, where he remains in critical condition. The Jeep driver escaped without injury.
SR 60 was closed in both directions for approximately four hours as investigators processed the scene. The roadway has since reopened, but the investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing. Authorities have not released the names of those involved pending notification of family members.
No further details were immediately available. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information emerges.
