The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit is investigating a single-vehicle crash that resulted in the death of the driver Thursday night, December 7, 2023, in Mulberry.
The crash was reported at around 11:39 pm, on Shepherd Road, near Grandeville Boulevard.
Upon the arrival of first responders, the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames. After the fire was extinguished, the driver was found inside the car, deceased.
Based on evidence at the scene, the preliminary investigation shows that the vehicle, a red 2015 Chevrolet Camaro, had been traveling west on Shepherd Road at a high rate of speed.
The Camaro crested over a hill near the intersection and the driver lost control.
After spinning, the car left the roadway on the north side, hit a speed limit sign, and then hit head-on into an oak tree which split the car down the middle.
The driver has not yet been positively identified.
Shepherd Road was closed for about five hours, and the investigation remains ongoing.
