Sebring Man Found Dead After Polk County Car Crash Causes Power Outage

FORT MEADE, Fla. — A 23-year-old Sebring man was killed early Tuesday morning in a single-vehicle crash in Polk County that not only claimed his life but also caused a power outage in the area, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Discovery of the Crash

Authorities say the incident came to light when Duke Energy workers called 911 at approximately 4:40 a.m. after finding a wrecked car in a pasture near the intersection of Avon Park Cutoff and Singletary Roads. Crews were in the area responding to a reported power outage when they discovered the vehicle.

Inside the pasture, they found a 2007 Toyota Corolla that had been severely damaged in the crash. First responders arrived on scene and confirmed that the driver, identified as Samuel Maisonet, 23, of Sebring, had died from his injuries.

Timeline of Events

Investigators believe the crash occurred about an hour earlier, around 3:30 a.m. According to the sheriff’s office, Maisonet’s Corolla was traveling southbound on ABC Road when it left the roadway. The vehicle struck a ground anchor wire supporting a power pole, causing extensive damage before rolling over.

Maisonet was ejected from the vehicle during the rollover and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Power Outage Connection

The collision with the utility equipment caused a power outage in the surrounding area, prompting Duke Energy crews to respond. Their investigation into the outage ultimately led to the discovery of the crash site.

Speed a Possible Factor

Based on early evidence, investigators believe that speed may have played a role in the deadly crash. The sheriff’s office cited the extent of the vehicle damage, roadway markings, impact points on the ground, and the distance the car traveled after impact as factors pointing toward excessive speed.

The investigation remains ongoing, with deputies working to piece together Maisonet’s final moments before the crash.

Community Impact

The fatal crash underscores the dangers of late-night driving on rural roadways. Residents of Polk County have voiced concerns in recent years about speeding and accidents along stretches of ABC Road and nearby intersections. Tuesday’s tragedy has renewed calls for drivers to use caution, particularly during overnight hours when traffic is lighter but risks remain high.

Moving Forward

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate and is urging anyone with information about Maisonet’s movements prior to the crash to come forward. In the meantime, family and friends are left mourning the sudden loss of a young man whose life ended tragically on a quiet stretch of road.