The PCSO Traffic Homicide Investigations Unit is investigating a two-vehicle crash involving a semi-truck that claimed the life of one of the drivers. The crash occurred at approximately 5:13 a.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the intersection of Cypress Gardens Boulevard and Lazy Lane in Winter Haven.
Based on evidence and witness statements, a Chevy Trax was traveling westbound in the outside lane of Cypress Gardens Boulevard with its headlights on as it approached Lazy Lane. At the same time, a semi-truck was exiting the 7-Eleven parking lot on Lazy Lane. The semi entered the westbound lanes while traveling south to cross the open median and continue eastbound on Cypress Gardens Boulevard. In doing so, it entered the path of the Chevy Trax, whose driver was unable to avoid the collision. The Chevy became lodged beneath the semi, trapping the driver until first responders arrived.
The driver of the Chevy Trax was pronounced deceased at the scene after first responders determined the driver had sustained fatal injuries. The semi-truck driver was not injured and was cleared at the scene.
Eastbound and westbound traffic on Cypress Gardens Boulevard was closed for approximately three hours while investigators processed the scene.
The investigation remains ongoing.
