New Traffic Signal Planned for Polk County’s Most Crash‑Prone Road by James Coulter
Polk County’s most crash‑prone county‑owned road will receive a new traffic signal at an intersection long criticized for heavy congestion and confusing lane shifts.
At their regular meeting on Tues. July 7, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) voted unanimously to approve a task order for engineering work to design improvements at the intersection of Kathleen Road and West Campbell Road in Lakeland.
The consultant services agreement (CSA) will be awarded to Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc. to provide professional design services for intersection improvements.
These services are estimated to cost a total not-to-exceed fee of $273,004.60, with funds budgeted and available within the county’s Transportation Trust Fund.
One of the planned improvements is an interim traffic signal, which will later be replaced by a permanent signal installed after Kathleen Road is widened along that segment.
County staff has determined that the intersection meets the established “signalization warrants” required for adding a traffic signal.
Kathleen Road, particularly at the Campbell Road intersection, has been identified as one of Polk County’s top crash hotspots, marked by heavy traffic, confusing lane movements, and poor lighting.
Drivers say the lack of a traffic signal and unclear right‑of‑way make the intersection difficult to navigate, especially as development in the area has increased traffic volumes.
Many residents have described rush-hour conditions as “cars as far as the eye can see,” as reported by Spectrum News 9.
Over the past five years, 366 crashes and three fatalities have occurred on a 1.5-mile stretch of Kathleen Road, according to data from the Polk Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) as reported by the Lakeland Gazette.
Other frequent issues, as reported by the Lakeland Gazette, include bottlenecks created by lane drops from four lanes to two, poor nighttime lighting, awkward roadway geometry, heavy traffic volumes, rear‑end collisions, and pedestrian/bicycle injuries.
Polk County and the TPO have planned to mitigate these issues with several proposed upgrades, including stronger LED lighting, improved crosswalks, and smoother lane transitions.
A temporary signal has been placed at the Campbell Road intersection and is expected to be replaced by a permanent signal following the road’s widening.
County Manager Bill Beasley requested the board approve the task order for intersection improvements, including the interim signal, “given the growing concerns and congestion” along the corridor.
Commissioner Michael Scott noted that the intersection required a new signal, claiming that it would be better “than the current stop sign, which has led to issues.”
WINTER HAVEN, Fla. – Winter Haven High School has named Corey Boatman as its new head football coach, moving quickly to fill the position just weeks before the start of the 2026 football season.
Corey Boatman
The announcement comes less than two days after former head coach White accepted another coaching opportunity, leaving the Blue Devils searching for new leadership just before preseason preparations ramp up.
In a message to the Winter Haven community, school officials acknowledged the unexpected change while expressing confidence in the program’s future.
“We know this has been a whirlwind 48 hours,” the announcement stated. “While we are disappointed in losing a head coach a few weeks before the start of the season, it is encouraging that our administration took swift action in making sure our program had a new leader ready to step up and take charge.”
Boatman, who has already been part of the Blue Devils coaching staff, said the transition will not change the expectations that have been set for the program.
“As many of you know by now, Coach White has accepted another opportunity. We appreciate everything he has done for our program and wish him nothing but success moving forward,” Boatman said.
“I want every one of you to hear this from me: our standard does not change. Our expectations do not change. Our goals do not change.”
Boatman said he already knows the team well after working alongside the players throughout the offseason.
“I’ve been in the trenches with you every day. I know this team, I know what we’re capable of, and I believe in every one of you,” he said.
He added that the focus of the program will continue to be centered on helping student-athletes succeed both on the field and beyond graduation.
“This program has always been about the players, and that will continue to be true. Every decision we make will be centered around putting you in the best position to succeed—not only this season, but in life and in your future after football.”
Boatman also emphasized continuity within the program.
“We’re not starting over. We’re moving forward,” he said. “Our coaching staff will continue working relentlessly to prepare you, develop you, and compete for championships.”
He encouraged players to remain united as the season approaches, saying, “Adversity doesn’t define great teams—how they respond does.”
WINTER HAVEN, Fla. – Winter Haven High School has named Corey Boatman as its new head football coach, moving quickly to fill the position just weeks before the start of the 2026 football season.
Corey Boatman
The announcement comes less than two days after former head coach White accepted another coaching opportunity, leaving the Blue Devils searching for new leadership just before preseason preparations ramp up.
In a message to the Winter Haven community, school officials acknowledged the unexpected change while expressing confidence in the program’s future.
“We know this has been a whirlwind 48 hours,” the announcement stated. “While we are disappointed in losing a head coach a few weeks before the start of the season, it is encouraging that our administration took swift action in making sure our program had a new leader ready to step up and take charge.”
Boatman, who has already been part of the Blue Devils coaching staff, said the transition will not change the expectations that have been set for the program.
“As many of you know by now, Coach White has accepted another opportunity. We appreciate everything he has done for our program and wish him nothing but success moving forward,” Boatman said.
“I want every one of you to hear this from me: our standard does not change. Our expectations do not change. Our goals do not change.”
Boatman said he already knows the team well after working alongside the players throughout the offseason.
“I’ve been in the trenches with you every day. I know this team, I know what we’re capable of, and I believe in every one of you,” he said.
He added that the focus of the program will continue to be centered on helping student-athletes succeed both on the field and beyond graduation.
“This program has always been about the players, and that will continue to be true. Every decision we make will be centered around putting you in the best position to succeed—not only this season, but in life and in your future after football.”
Boatman also emphasized continuity within the program.
“We’re not starting over. We’re moving forward,” he said. “Our coaching staff will continue working relentlessly to prepare you, develop you, and compete for championships.”
He encouraged players to remain united as the season approaches, saying, “Adversity doesn’t define great teams—how they respond does.”
With a project that started in November of 2025, the South Lake Howard Nature Park Expansion is expected to be complete this summer. That is just in time to address flooding concerns and expand stormwater collection and treatment capabilities while allowing citizens to continue to enjoy the great outdoors.
The park’s territory will almost double in size with its “multi-use” design. The expansion will include more amentities for the public to enjoy. It will also include those enviornmental friendly aspects. For example, there are structures in various ponds designed to contain water with a piping system that holds, treats, and then stage water in efforts to reduce pollutants and return to nature. This will impact the lake quality of the adjacent Lake Howard.
Expansion was made possible with the Public Works team acquiring a Florida Department and Environmental Protection (FDEP) Heartland Headquarters grant that funded $450,000 of this project. Thanks to the collaboration, there will be updated restrooms, an expanded trail, scenic boardwalk, and overall enhanced habitat for nature and wildlife.
Residents can also have access to a pavilion area where educational and environmental programming may take place. Along with a playground, kayaking, fishing, and hiking capabilities. In fact, the South Lake Howard Nature Park will also house the very first 13 hole disc golf course in Winter Haven.
With a project that started in November of 2025, the South Lake Howard Nature Park Expansion is expected to be complete this summer. That is just in time to address flooding concerns and expand stormwater collection and treatment capabilities while allowing citizens to continue to enjoy the great outdoors.
The park’s territory will almost double in size with its “multi-use” design. The expansion will include more amentities for the public to enjoy. It will also include those enviornmental friendly aspects. For example, there are structures in various ponds designed to contain water with a piping system that holds, treats, and then stage water in efforts to reduce pollutants and return to nature. This will impact the lake quality of the adjacent Lake Howard.
Expansion was made possible with the Public Works team acquiring a Florida Department and Environmental Protection (FDEP) Heartland Headquarters grant that funded $450,000 of this project. Thanks to the collaboration, there will be updated restrooms, an expanded trail, scenic boardwalk, and overall enhanced habitat for nature and wildlife.
Residents can also have access to a pavilion area where educational and environmental programming may take place. Along with a playground, kayaking, fishing, and hiking capabilities. In fact, the South Lake Howard Nature Park will also house the very first 13 hole disc golf course in Winter Haven.
Top 6 Hot Things to Check Out This Summer at Disney World by James Coulter
Summer’s here, and no place captures the magic of a summer vacation quite like Walt Disney World. The classics are still as beloved as ever, but this year the parks are turning the excitement up to eleven.
From a wild, wacky thrill ride powered by a rockin’ soundtrack to a high‑flying, coast‑to‑coast adventure across America, these are the six hottest new Disney World additions you won’t want to miss this summer.
#1: Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets
Where: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
When: Opening date May 26, 2026
Aerosmith may have taken their last bow at Rock n’ Roller Coaster, but now it’s time to raise the curtains, light the lights, and get things started with the newest act taking the stage: The Muppets! Rock out with the Electric Mayhem as they rush through rush hour to get to their big concert across town—and they only have a minute and a half to get there!
Aside from the iconic Muppet band, guests will also be able to see Scooter in the recording booth, “brought to life using motion‑capture technology of Scooter the Muppet,” as reported by Disney Parks Blog. (Yes, through the magic of Disney Imagineering, the animatronic figure looks, moves, and emotes exactly like a puppet!)
Guests can also spy several other Muppet easter eggs throughout the queue, including the old Muppet Mobile Labs vehicle in the parking garage and pizza boxes from the former PizzeRizzo eatery.
And, of course, what Muppets experience would be complete without the cranky hecklers Statler and Waldorf? The two will be making quips at riders at the very end—and both are portrayed using their old animatronics from MuppetVision 3D!
#2: Soarin’ Across America
Where: The Land Pavilion at Epcot
When: Opening date May 26, 2026
America is celebrating its 250th birthday this year—and what better way to commemorate the occasion than with a high-flying adventure from sea to shining sea?
Yes, Soarin took guests over California and around the world. Now, the fan-favorite ride will be taking guests through spacious skies, across amber waves of grain, and over purple mountains majesties.
Come face-to-face with the great American presidents at Mount Rushmore, take a grand gander at the Grand Canyon, and take a patriotic view of our nation’s capital—along with more than a dozen other breathtaking locations across America the Beautiful!
#3: Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run with The Mandalorian and Grogu
Where: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
When: Opening date May 22, 2026
You’ve seen them on television. You can catch them in the theaters. And now you can embark with them in an action-packed adventure on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.
Join the Mandalorian and Grogu as the bounty hunter duo set off on their latest mission. As Disney Parks Blog reports, “Hondo Ohnaka has caught wind of a high-stakes deal unfolding on the sands of Tatooine, where ex-Imperial officers have crossed paths with a ruthless band of pirates.”
Of course, they’ll need all the help they can get, and you can gladly lend them your help by taking control of the Millennium Falcon and setting course to iconic Star Wars locations, “including the cloud city of Bespin, the shattered remains of the second Death Star near Endor, or the towering cityscape of the galactic capital, Coruscant.”
#4: Magic of Disney Animation
Where: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
When: Opening date May 26, 2026
Disney remains famous for its beloved animation. Now, guests will be able to see how their favorite animated characters are brought to life with the Magic of Disney Animation.
This new animation-inspired experience is set inside a building designed to look like Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California—including Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat topping the building!
With the help of favorite Disney characters, guests will learn how their favorite animated movies are made through every step of the animation process. They’ll even be able to take a hand at drawing their own character sketch, and even meet some beloved animated characters.
Of course, this magical experience begins even before guests set foot inside the building. In the courtyard surrounding the attraction (inspired by the architecture and atmosphere of the legendary campus), guests can spot a few Disney characters and hear remixes of classic Disney tunes playing over the sound system.
#5: Jessie’s Roundup
Where: The Diamond Horseshoe in Frontierland at the Magic Kingdom
When: Opening date May 26, 2026
Yee-Haw! Get along, little doggies, and get ready for a rip-roaring time with your favorite Toy Story pals at Jessie’s Roundup.
This summer only—and just in time for Toy Story 5—Jessie, Woody, and their other Toy Story pals will be taking over the Diamond Horseshoe in Magic Kingdom for some wild west fun.
Not only will guests be able to see these characters perform in several shows, but young guests can try their little hands at other fun and games, including cornhole, horseshoes, and even some really big building blocks.
#6: Bluey’s Wild World
Where: Conservation Station at Animal Kingdom
When: Opening date May 26, 2026
Everyone’s favorite blue heeler is arriving from down under for some wild and wacky fun at Animal Kingdom.
Hop aboard the Wildlife Express Train to Conservation Station, where guests will not only be able to meet Bluey and her little sister Bingo, but also partake in their family’s favorite games from Keepy Uppy to the Magic Asparagus.
Of course, the rambunctious blue heelers won’t be the only animals from Australia there. Guests can then jump over to Jumpin Junction to see other Australian animals like kangaroos and wallabies in this new, shared habitat.
The Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation (CCF) has reached another milestone in its mission to help save lives, donating its 98th automated external defibrillator (AED) to The U Salon LLC in Winter Haven.
The AED was made possible through a “Pay It Forward” sponsorship from Dr. Tonya Bolton, owner and medical director of Emergency Fix. The placement brought together CCF volunteers, Emergency Fix staff, family, friends, and employees from The U Salon for an evening focused on cardiac awareness, CPR education, and emergency preparedness.
Dr. Bolton, a board-certified emergency physician, said her decision to support the foundation was driven by both her professional experience and a deeply personal journey.
“Supporting the Pay It Forward program was an easy decision for me. As an emergency physician, I have personally witnessed lives saved because an AED was available when seconds mattered. Having also experienced my own cardiac emergency, this mission has become even more personal.”
Dr. Bolton has been a physician since graduating from medical school in 2011. After earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida in 2007, she joined the U.S. Navy through the Health Professions Scholarship Program, which funded her medical education at Nova Southeastern University. She served as a physician in the Navy until 2019 before completing her Emergency Medicine residency through Emory University. Today, she serves as Medical Director of the Emergency Department at AdventHealth Lake Wales while also operating Emergency Fix, which she opened in Winter Haven in 2022.
She said opening Emergency Fix gave her an opportunity to reconnect with her hometown while continuing her passion for serving others.
The U Salon was selected as the recipient because of the number of people it serves every day.
“The U Salon is a wonderful local business that welcomes people of all ages every single day. Emergencies don’t only happen in hospitals—they happen in salons, restaurants, churches, gyms, schools, and workplaces. Having an AED readily available in a place where our community gathers could truly save someone’s life.”
Dr. Bolton also said she wanted her sponsorship to have an impact beyond a single location.
“When I learned about the work the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation is doing, I wanted to do more than simply purchase an AED for one location. My hope was to also support their mission so they can continue placing AEDs throughout our community for those who may not otherwise be able to afford them.”
Foundation founder Melanie Brown Culpepper Beilke said she first met Dr. Bolton in 2023 after receiving a gift certificate to Emergency Fix from her children. What began as a client relationship eventually grew into a friendship built on shared values and a desire to give back to the community.
A few months ago, Dr. Bolton contacted Culpepper about sponsoring an AED as part of her annual charitable giving, choosing to support the foundation’s efforts to increase heart awareness and expand access to lifesaving equipment throughout the community.
During the presentation, Melanie shared the story behind the foundation, which she established in honor of her late fiancé, Michael Culpepper, who passed away from heart failure in July 2020. She explained how the foundation has transformed personal loss into a mission of placing AEDs throughout the community, providing CPR education, and awarding scholarships to future first responders.
The event also included a CPR and AED demonstration led by Winter Haven Fire Department paramedic Eric Shimkus, who volunteers his time to educate businesses and community members. The training also featured information on choking rescue devices, Narcan, and fire extinguishers, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for a variety of emergencies.
Dr. Bolton praised the training provided during the event.
“The demonstration was exceptional. Eric presented the information in a way that was both educational and approachable, making everyone feel comfortable and prepared.”
She added that even with her medical background, she appreciated the focus on preparing everyday people to respond in an emergency.
“Even though I am an emergency physician and have experience using AEDs in clinical settings, I appreciated how the training focused on everyday people. The message was clear: you don’t have to be a healthcare professional to save a life.”
She also emphasized the value of hands-on education.
“The hands-on CPR practice and AED demonstration gave everyone the opportunity to build confidence, ask questions, and understand exactly what to do if they ever find themselves in an emergency. That kind of education is invaluable.”
Reflecting on the foundation’s work, Dr. Bolton praised Melanie and the organization’s impact.
“Melanie was actually one of my very first clients when I opened Emergency Fix. Over the years, I have had the privilege of watching her transform unimaginable personal tragedy into an incredible mission of hope.”
“The Culpepper Cardiac Foundation is doing so much more than placing AEDs. They are educating businesses, empowering communities through CPR training, and giving people the confidence to respond during a cardiac emergency. Their impact will undoubtedly save lives.”
She also recognized the dedication of everyone involved with the organization.
“Melanie and the entire CCF team are some of the most selfless people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. Their passion is contagious, and their dedication to serving our community is truly inspiring. It has been amazing to watch the foundation grow, and I have no doubt that its impact will continue to expand for years to come.”
As the foundation celebrates its 98th AED placement, Dr. Bolton hopes more businesses will consider preparing for cardiac emergencies.
“I would encourage every business owner to consider partnering with the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation. We spend so much time planning for things we hope never happen—fires, hurricanes, and other emergencies. A cardiac emergency deserves that same level of preparation.”
“You never expect someone to collapse from sudden cardiac arrest, but if it happens, having an AED nearby and people who are trained to respond can make all the difference.”
She concluded by thanking the foundation for its work and expressing her hope that the sponsorship will continue saving lives.
“I also want to sincerely thank Melanie, Eric, and the entire Culpepper Cardiac Foundation team for everything they do. They have created something truly special from a heartbreaking loss, and our community is safer because of their dedication.”
“It was an honor to support their mission. My hope is that our contribution helps place another AED exactly where it is needed most and, one day, helps save another life.”
With the addition of AED No. 98 at The U Salon, the Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation continues its mission of increasing access to lifesaving equipment throughout the community while promoting CPR education and emergency preparedness. The organization continues to place AEDs each month through community support, sponsorships, fundraising events, and donations, all while honoring Michael Culpepper’s legacy with its mission: “Saving Lives Matters.”
The Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation (CCF) has reached another milestone in its mission to help save lives, donating its 98th automated external defibrillator (AED) to The U Salon LLC in Winter Haven.
The AED was made possible through a “Pay It Forward” sponsorship from Dr. Tonya Bolton, owner and medical director of Emergency Fix. The placement brought together CCF volunteers, Emergency Fix staff, family, friends, and employees from The U Salon for an evening focused on cardiac awareness, CPR education, and emergency preparedness.
Dr. Bolton, a board-certified emergency physician, said her decision to support the foundation was driven by both her professional experience and a deeply personal journey.
“Supporting the Pay It Forward program was an easy decision for me. As an emergency physician, I have personally witnessed lives saved because an AED was available when seconds mattered. Having also experienced my own cardiac emergency, this mission has become even more personal.”
Dr. Bolton has been a physician since graduating from medical school in 2011. After earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida in 2007, she joined the U.S. Navy through the Health Professions Scholarship Program, which funded her medical education at Nova Southeastern University. She served as a physician in the Navy until 2019 before completing her Emergency Medicine residency through Emory University. Today, she serves as Medical Director of the Emergency Department at AdventHealth Lake Wales while also operating Emergency Fix, which she opened in Winter Haven in 2022.
She said opening Emergency Fix gave her an opportunity to reconnect with her hometown while continuing her passion for serving others.
The U Salon was selected as the recipient because of the number of people it serves every day.
“The U Salon is a wonderful local business that welcomes people of all ages every single day. Emergencies don’t only happen in hospitals—they happen in salons, restaurants, churches, gyms, schools, and workplaces. Having an AED readily available in a place where our community gathers could truly save someone’s life.”
Dr. Bolton also said she wanted her sponsorship to have an impact beyond a single location.
“When I learned about the work the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation is doing, I wanted to do more than simply purchase an AED for one location. My hope was to also support their mission so they can continue placing AEDs throughout our community for those who may not otherwise be able to afford them.”
Foundation founder Melanie Brown Culpepper Beilke said she first met Dr. Bolton in 2023 after receiving a gift certificate to Emergency Fix from her children. What began as a client relationship eventually grew into a friendship built on shared values and a desire to give back to the community.
A few months ago, Dr. Bolton contacted Culpepper about sponsoring an AED as part of her annual charitable giving, choosing to support the foundation’s efforts to increase heart awareness and expand access to lifesaving equipment throughout the community.
During the presentation, Melanie shared the story behind the foundation, which she established in honor of her late fiancé, Michael Culpepper, who passed away from heart failure in July 2020. She explained how the foundation has transformed personal loss into a mission of placing AEDs throughout the community, providing CPR education, and awarding scholarships to future first responders.
The event also included a CPR and AED demonstration led by Winter Haven Fire Department paramedic Eric Shimkus, who volunteers his time to educate businesses and community members. The training also featured information on choking rescue devices, Narcan, and fire extinguishers, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for a variety of emergencies.
Dr. Bolton praised the training provided during the event.
“The demonstration was exceptional. Eric presented the information in a way that was both educational and approachable, making everyone feel comfortable and prepared.”
She added that even with her medical background, she appreciated the focus on preparing everyday people to respond in an emergency.
“Even though I am an emergency physician and have experience using AEDs in clinical settings, I appreciated how the training focused on everyday people. The message was clear: you don’t have to be a healthcare professional to save a life.”
She also emphasized the value of hands-on education.
“The hands-on CPR practice and AED demonstration gave everyone the opportunity to build confidence, ask questions, and understand exactly what to do if they ever find themselves in an emergency. That kind of education is invaluable.”
Reflecting on the foundation’s work, Dr. Bolton praised Melanie and the organization’s impact.
“Melanie was actually one of my very first clients when I opened Emergency Fix. Over the years, I have had the privilege of watching her transform unimaginable personal tragedy into an incredible mission of hope.”
“The Culpepper Cardiac Foundation is doing so much more than placing AEDs. They are educating businesses, empowering communities through CPR training, and giving people the confidence to respond during a cardiac emergency. Their impact will undoubtedly save lives.”
She also recognized the dedication of everyone involved with the organization.
“Melanie and the entire CCF team are some of the most selfless people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. Their passion is contagious, and their dedication to serving our community is truly inspiring. It has been amazing to watch the foundation grow, and I have no doubt that its impact will continue to expand for years to come.”
As the foundation celebrates its 98th AED placement, Dr. Bolton hopes more businesses will consider preparing for cardiac emergencies.
“I would encourage every business owner to consider partnering with the Culpepper Cardiac Foundation. We spend so much time planning for things we hope never happen—fires, hurricanes, and other emergencies. A cardiac emergency deserves that same level of preparation.”
“You never expect someone to collapse from sudden cardiac arrest, but if it happens, having an AED nearby and people who are trained to respond can make all the difference.”
She concluded by thanking the foundation for its work and expressing her hope that the sponsorship will continue saving lives.
“I also want to sincerely thank Melanie, Eric, and the entire Culpepper Cardiac Foundation team for everything they do. They have created something truly special from a heartbreaking loss, and our community is safer because of their dedication.”
“It was an honor to support their mission. My hope is that our contribution helps place another AED exactly where it is needed most and, one day, helps save another life.”
With the addition of AED No. 98 at The U Salon, the Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation continues its mission of increasing access to lifesaving equipment throughout the community while promoting CPR education and emergency preparedness. The organization continues to place AEDs each month through community support, sponsorships, fundraising events, and donations, all while honoring Michael Culpepper’s legacy with its mission: “Saving Lives Matters.”
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a death investigation after a man was fatally hit by a CSX train Thursday night, July 9, 2026.
Deputies were dispatched to the railroad tracks northeast of the intersection of 2nd Street North and 2nd Eloise Terrace in Winter Haven at approximately 8:20 p.m.
The victim, a 37-year-old man who appears to be homeless, was found deceased with blunt force trauma to his head, shoulder, and back.
The investigation determined that the CSX train departed from Auburndale and was traveling southbound towards Lake Wales at about 35 mph.
The train’s engineer saw the man walking southbound along the left side of the train tracks. The train’s horn was used to warn the man of the advancing train, but he continued to walk along the tracks and did not acknowledge the train.
An autopsy will be performed at a later date.
Efforts are ongoing to locate and notify the next of kin. The investigation is ongoing.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a death investigation after a man was fatally hit by a CSX train Thursday night, July 9, 2026.
Deputies were dispatched to the railroad tracks northeast of the intersection of 2nd Street North and 2nd Eloise Terrace in Winter Haven at approximately 8:20 p.m.
The victim, a 37-year-old man who appears to be homeless, was found deceased with blunt force trauma to his head, shoulder, and back.
The investigation determined that the CSX train departed from Auburndale and was traveling southbound towards Lake Wales at about 35 mph.
The train’s engineer saw the man walking southbound along the left side of the train tracks. The train’s horn was used to warn the man of the advancing train, but he continued to walk along the tracks and did not acknowledge the train.
An autopsy will be performed at a later date.
Efforts are ongoing to locate and notify the next of kin. The investigation is ongoing.
