A single-vehicle crash Wednesday morning, January 17, 2024 resulted in the death of the driver, 40-year old Steven Russell of Polk City.
First responders were dispatched at about 9:23 am to the crash near 9950 Wilder Road, west of Polk City.
Mr. Russell, who had not been wearing a seat belt, was found with significant injuries, and was transported to a local hospital by Polk County Fire Rescue; he was declared deceased shortly after arrival.
Traffic Homicide detectives from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office began investigating the crash while evidence was collected by the PCSO’s Forensic Investigations unit.
Mr. Russell had been driving a silver 2007 Volvo XC 90 SUV westbound on Wilder Road when the vehicle went off of the right shoulder, struck and broke a wood power pole, and came to a stop against a tree.
The evidence showed there was no braking or corrective steering prior to the crash.
Mr. Russell was believed to be driving home when he crashed less than a mile away from his residence.
The investigation remains ongoing.
