17-year old driver killed, 15-year old critically injured in Winter Haven crash
The Traffic Homicide Unit of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal one-vehicle crash that occurred Monday afternoon, July 8, 2024, southwest of Winter Haven.
The crash was reported at around 3:06 pm, and units from the PCSO and Polk County Fire Rescue responded to the crash scene on Spirit Lake Road, just south of the Oakwood Estates community (Rolling Oaks Drive).
Upon the arrival of first responders, two juveniles were found entrapped inside of a white 1994 Chevrolet pickup truck.
The 17-year old male driver from Winter Haven died at the scene.
The 15-year old female passenger from Deltona suffered head trauma, a brain bleed, facial fractures, lung damage, and various broken bones. She was transported to a Tampa hospital in critical, but stable condition.
Based on evidence from the scene, detectives determined that the truck had been driving south on Spirit Lake Road. As the truck entered a curve in the road, the driver lost control of the vehicle. The truck exited the west side of the road and struck an oak tree.
Further analysis is required to determine whether the seat belts were used.
Detectives noted that wet roads due to rain could be a factor in the crash, but the investigation remains ongoing.
