Sheriff Grady Judd

UPDATE: Detectives have located the truck and the driver.

Originally released: 

Detectives from the Polk County Sheriff's Office are investigating a crash that occurred in Waverly that resulted in critically injuring a 28-year-old Winter Haven man.

At around 8:20 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, PCSO deputies and Polk County Fire Rescue responded to a two-vehicle crash on U.S. 27 near the Peace Creek RV Park.

The preliminary investigation determined that the Winter Haven man was driving a Yamaha motorcycle east on Cypress Gardens Boulevard passing other vehicles at a high rate of speed. He then turned north onto U.S. 27 and continued to drive at fast speeds. As he approached the Peace Creek RV Park, the motorcyclist struck the rear of another vehicle. The unknown vehicle was not at the crash location when deputies arrived. It is unknown at this time if that motorist was aware he was hit by the motorcycle.

Excessive speed appears to be a factor in the crash.

Detectives believe there may have been a 1997-2004 Dodge Dakota pick-up truck in the area when the crash occurred and would like to speak with the owner of the truck.

If anyone has any information regarding this crash investigation, please contact the Polk County Sheriff's Office at 863-298-6200. Tips can also be made anonymously to Heartland Crime Stoppers Florida at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477), and if the tips lead to an arrest, the tipster could be eligible for a reward.