WINTER HAVEN, FL — It is with a heavy heart that we report that a female Winter Haven High School student has died following a devastating crash involving a Polk County Public Schools bus and a Jeep Monday morning, according to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd.
More than 30 students were aboard the school bus when the crash occurred. Sheriff Judd confirmed that one female student died, along with an occupant of the Jeep. Several other students were injured and transported to area hospitals. Five medical helicopters responded to the scene, and approximately five students were declared trauma alerts.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the a white chevy Malibu left its lane and collided with the school bus and other vehicles. Judd described the collision as a “reverse PIT maneuver,” which caused the bus to lose control.
The crash occurred near Lucerne Park Road and Wildflower Drive in Winter Haven. Multiple medical helicopters responded to the scene as emergency crews treated and transported patients. The bus driver was transported to a local hospital.
The investigation remains ongoing. All information is preliminary and subject to change as authorities continue their investigation.
Sheriff Grady stated that they will hold another press conference this week to provide an update. Nothing further at this time.
SOURCE: POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
