Polk County Fire Rescue Press Release
Bartow, Fla. (Aug. 19, 2026) — Polk County Fire Rescue has lost one of their own in a line of duty death. Volunteer Chaplain Hector Cruz passed away due to injuries sustained during a car crash in the Eagle Lake area Wednesday. The crash occurred while he was traveling between PCFR stations to check on crews.
Cruz served PCFR since 2023. He was known for his compassion, guidance and his ability to offer solace whenever someone was going through a difficult situation. He truly embodied the servant mentality as he aided the men and women of not only the county’s fire and EMS services, but of the community as well.
“Chaplain Cruz’s influence was felt throughout the department as he had the ability to make a difficult situation easier. This ability is a rare one that not many can master but he was one of the few who did,” said Fire Chief Shawn Smith. “Such sudden tragedy is never easy, but it is especially difficult when it is one of our own. My heart goes out to Hector’s family, friends and colleagues as they navigate this trying time.”
The cause of the crash is under investigation, and no funeral arrangements have been announced at this time.
