Florida

Man Killed in Accident at US 98 near Lakeland, FL

Published on: January 3, 2022

Date of Accident
December 28, 2021
Victim's Name(s)
Type of Accident
Commercial Truck
Alcohol/Drugs Suspected
Yes

Where it Happened

U.S. 98, Lakeland, FL, USA

What Happened

Polk County Sheriff's Office authorities are investigating a collision that resulted in a death at US 98 near Lakeland, FL on December 28th, 2021. Initial investigation suggests the 7:37 a.m. crash occurred due to impairment on the part of one of the drivers. A pickup truck towing a trailer operated by 34-year-old Joshua Waters was headed southbound on US 98 when it collided with box truck. Police say the trailer was "improperly loaded, causing it to become unstable" and police say Waters was impaired while driving. The driver of the box truck, a 44-year-old Lakeland man, died at the scene. His passenger and 18-year-old son was hospitalized in critical condition. Waters reportedly suffered minor injuries and was arrested on a charge of DUI Manslaughter, DUI Crash with Serious Bodily Injury and Resisting.

Additional Information

Investigating Officer or Authority
Polk County Sheriff's Office
Vehicles Involved
Pickup Truck, Box Truck
Road/Highway
US 98
Injuries Sustained

Fatal injuries (1), serious injuries (1)

Apparent/Alleged Cause of Accident

Vehicle operated by a suspected impaired driver collided with another vehicle

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