A violent and tragic chain of events in Lakeland on Monday, May 12, 2025, claimed two lives — including that of an innocent bystander — after a shooting led to a high-speed crash into a home. Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd shared details during a 5 PM press conference streamed live from the scene.
Around 1:30 PM, 19-year-old Davin Boutwell of Mulberry was driving a white Mercedes through the Secret Cove subdivision off Reynolds Road. Witnesses reported that Boutwell briefly interacted with individuals on Pirates Way before suddenly accelerating at high speed and crashing into a residential home.
When deputies arrived, they found the Mercedes embedded in the structure. Boutwell was pulled from the vehicle with a gunshot wound to the chest. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Tragically, a second victim was found underneath the car. Authorities identified him as 38-year-old Nathaniel Jones of Lakeland, who had been riding a scooter when he was struck by the Mercedes and thrown into the home. He died instantly.
According to Sheriff Judd, Boutwell had distinctive tattoos, including “The world is yours” on his chest and “Life is a gamble” on his hand. Inside the vehicle, deputies discovered two gallon-sized bags of marijuana and a large sum of cash.
Detectives believe one of the individuals who approached Boutwell’s car shortly before the crash is responsible for the shooting. The incident is being investigated as a double homicide.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
