A street race turns deadly and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office says it easily could have been avoided.
On April 14, deputies say a Jeep Wrangler was stopped at Highway 98 and Autumnwood Grove Boulevard in Lakeland.
While at the light, an unidentified sports bike pulled alongside the Jeep and the two drivers revered their engines. The Jeep and sports bike sped off when the light turned green.
When traveling on Highway 98 the driver of the Jeep lost control and struck an electrical pole, both the driver and passenger were ejected. The passenger of the vehicle died from her injuries in the crash, the driver is currently in critical condition.
Several witnesses were interviewed and stated the motorcycle appeared to be several car lengths ahead of the Jeep when the Jeep lost control and crashed. The witness stated the sports bike may not have been aware of the crash.
At this time charges are pending.