HAINES CITY, FL – Earlier this afternoon, units from the Haines City Fire Department responded to a significant motor vehicle accident (MVA) involving a large dump truck that resulted in downed power lines and a subsequent brush fire at the intersection of Polk City Road and Wilbar Lane.
At approximately 12:00PM, Haines City Fire Department’s engines HCEN-1, HCEN-2, and brush fire unit HCBR-1, along with command unit HCBC-1, were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, first responders found a large dump truck on its side, having crashed into a power pole. The accident caused the truck to take out two power poles before it came to a stop.
Bystanders reported that the truck veered off the roadway, lost control, and caused significant disruptions, including power outages in the area. The downed power lines ignited a grass fire approximately 200 feet by 100 feet in size. The fire department quickly extinguished the fire, preventing further damage.
The driver of the dump truck managed to exit the vehicle without assistance before the arrival of the emergency crews. He sustained minor, non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Heart of Florida Hospital by Polk County Fire Rescue.
“Our team performed brilliantly under pressure,” remarked Haines City Fire Chief Drew Neubrand, expressing pride in his crew’s swift response. “Their quick action and teamwork were crucial in containing the fire and handling the situation with utmost safety. It’s their dedication that keeps our community safe every day.”
Duke Energy was on site promptly to begin repairs on the damaged power lines. The area sustained minor property damage, including to a barbed wire fence. Fortunately, there were no fuel leaks or environmental impacts from the incident.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) is the lead investigative agency in this incident. Motorists and residents were advised to avoid the area during the cleanup and repair operations.
