PCSO investigating fatal crash involving a car in a pond
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a crash in Lake Alfred that occurred early Sunday morning, September 4, 2022, in which the vehicle became submerged in a pond, and the driver was found deceased.
The victim was identified as 47-year old Jesus Campos of Winter Haven.
At about 12:53 a.m., a deputy was flagged down by a pedestrian and informed that a car had just crashed into a pond near Shinn Boulevard and East Thelma Street, within the city limits of Lake Alfred.
Three deputies jumped into the water, but were unable to pull Mr. Campos from the completely submerged red, 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Polk County Fire Rescue and Lake Alfred Fire Department arrived on scene, and using a cable attached to a fire truck, the Jeep was pulled out of the water. At that time, paramedics were able to determine that the lone occupant, Mr. Campos, was deceased.
The PCSO Traffic Homicide Unit began gathering evidence and witness statements. According to their preliminary investigation, it was determined that Mr. Campos had been travelling south on Shinn Boulevard, and failed to negotiate the curve in the roadway. The Jeep jumped a curb, crashed through a fence, and entered the pond.
The investigation remains ongoing.
