Tragic Crash in Mulberry Claims Life of Ft. Meade Woman in Head-On Collision with Semi-Truck
MULBERRY, Fla. – A tragic traffic incident Tuesday evening claimed the life of a 36-year-old woman from Ft. Meade after her vehicle collided head-on with a semi-truck in rural Polk County. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) is investigating the deadly crash, which occurred shortly after 8 p.m. along State Road 640 near Watson Road, southeast of Mulberry.
According to investigators, the woman was behind the wheel of a GMC Terrain and had been reportedly driving aggressively in the moments leading up to the crash. Witnesses stated she had been passing multiple vehicles at high speeds, disregarding traffic signals—including speeding through a flashing red light—and ultimately attempting to overtake a vehicle in a designated no-passing zone.
The sheriff’s office says that as the woman crossed into the oncoming lane in an attempt to pass, her SUV slammed head-on into a semi-truck traveling in the opposite direction. The impact of the crash was devastating.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but tragically, the woman was pronounced dead at the site of the collision. Her identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
The driver of the semi-truck was transported to a local hospital for medical evaluation. According to the sheriff’s office, he is expected to recover and survive his injuries.
Photos released by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office show the extensive damage to both vehicles, highlighting the severity of the impact and the dangerous consequences of unsafe driving behavior.
Sheriff’s Statement
Sheriff Grady Judd emphasized the need for caution and responsibility on the road, especially in rural areas where high speeds and poor visibility can make dangerous driving even more hazardous.
“This crash was completely avoidable,” Judd said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to the family of the deceased, but we also want this to serve as a reminder: reckless driving can cost lives. Passing in a no-passing zone is never worth the risk.”
Community Reactions and Road Safety Concerns
The incident has stirred concern among local residents who frequently travel Hwy. 640, a two-lane road known for narrow shoulders and limited visibility in some areas. Several community members have voiced frustration over the number of dangerous drivers who disregard traffic laws in this part of the county.
“It’s not the first time we’ve seen someone speeding or passing in places they shouldn’t,” said a resident who lives nearby. “People need to slow down and be patient. This road isn’t built for racing.”
Investigation Ongoing
The PCSO Traffic Homicide Unit is conducting a full investigation into the crash. They are reviewing dashcam footage from nearby vehicles, analyzing the road conditions at the time of the incident, and interviewing witnesses.
Toxicology tests will also be conducted as part of standard protocol, although deputies have not indicated whether impairment is suspected in the crash.
A Cautionary Tale
As the investigation continues, Tuesday night’s fatal crash stands as a grim reminder of the consequences of aggressive driving. The loss of a life in such a preventable manner underscores the importance of patience, caution, and respect for traffic laws—especially in areas with limited passing zones.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office urges all motorists to obey posted signs, remain vigilant on the road, and avoid risky maneuvers that can lead to irreversible tragedy.
More information is expected to be released once the investigation is complete and the woman’s family has been notified.