UPDATE Wednesday 3PM
Auburndale, FL – August 13, 2025 – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has released new details regarding a tragic residential fire that occurred on Gladiola Drive in Auburndale on August 12, 2025, which claimed the lives of two residents.
The decedents have been identified as Mr. James Bolender, 67, and Mrs. Valerie Bolender, 63. Autopsies conducted by the Medical Examiner’s Office on August 13, 2025, confirmed that the couple’s injuries were consistent with fire-related deaths. No foul play, injury, or trauma was observed during the examinations.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, with the State Fire Marshal’s Office leading the effort. Preliminary findings suggest the fire was accidental, but a final determination is still pending.
Eye In the Sky News extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. and Mrs. Bolender.
Source: Polk County Sheriff’s Office
Initial Report Tuesday 4PM
Auburndale, FL – Tuesday, August 12 — Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR) along with Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) and the Florida State Fire Marshal’s office worked a house fire with two fatalities on Gladiola Drive in Auburndale on Tuesday afternoon.
Crews were originally dispatched to an explosion but upon arrival noted it was a working modular home fire along with a fully involved golf cart and a partially involved vehicle.
PCFR members acted quickly getting water on the fire within minutes of being on scene. Crews split duties as they worked on getting the fire under control while other firefighters simultaneously initiated a primary search of the residence where they found and extricated two individuals. The two individuals were later pronounced dead at the scene.
“It’s always sad when deaths occur during emergency situations. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of the individuals that passed,” said Polk County Fire Chief Shawn Smith.
PCSO and the Florida State Fire Marshal’s office are investigating the incident.
