LAKELAND, FL — The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit is investigating a multi-vehicle crash that occurred on Saturday, November 29, 2025, resulting in two fatalities.
The crash was reported at 5:47 p.m. via 911 in front of Nick and Moe’s gas station at 4410 Kathleen Road.
According to the PCSO, a 2024 Nissan driven by 23-year-old Rylee Hill of Fort Meade was traveling westbound on Kathleen Road and failed to negotiate a curve transitioning to northbound. The Nissan crossed the center grass median, became briefly airborne, and struck the front left quarter panel of a 2024 Kia. The Nissan continued westbound, collided with a 2021 Dodge Ram truck, then struck a 2024 Audi SUV head-on.
Rylee Hill, the driver of the Nissan, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Annette Zalner, 79, of Lakeland, a passenger in the Audi SUV, was also pronounced deceased at the scene.
Three individuals were transported to Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries:
- Emily Placeres, 48, of Lakeland, driver of the Kia
- Brock Hiltner, 25, of Michigan, driver of the Audi SUV
- One additional passenger from the Audi SUV
The driver of the Dodge Ram truck, 53-year-old Chad Hiltner of Lakeland, was not injured. Passengers in the Kia were not injured.
Investigators suspect excessive speed on the part of the Nissan driver contributed to the crash.
Kathleen Road was closed in the area for approximately six hours while the scene was processed. The investigation remains ongoing. Nothing further at this time.
Source: Polk County Sheriff’s Office PIO
Editor’s Note: Our team extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased.
