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Power Pole Struck by Vehicle in Lake Wales Neighborhood

Staff Reporter
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Power Pole Struck by Vehicle in Lake Wales Neighborhood
Photo: Maria Iannucci

Update 1:05 pm: Polk County Fire Rescue Public Information Officer, Katelyn Hoverkamp, states that no injuries were reported and no one was transported. PCFR will keep the roadway closed until Duke Energy can establish that the power is cut to the downed lines.

At approximately 12:10 PM on Sunday, December 15, 2024, a call was reported regarding a traffic collision near 2976 Fast Trot Trail in Lake Wales, a street within the Lake Wales Ranchettes neighborhood.

A vehicle has reportedly struck a power pole, resulting in wires down. Law-enforcement and Polk County Fire Rescue are on scene.

Fast Trot Trail is closed to traffic at this time due to wires being down.

This article will be updated if new information is available.

In Loving Memory of Homer “Rip” Walser, 76, of Lake Wales

Staff Reporter
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In Loving Memory of Homer “Rip” Walser, 76, of Lake Wales

Homer “Rip” Walser, 76

Homer “Rip” Walser of Lake Wales passed away Friday, December 13, 2024 at AdventHealth Lake Wales surrounded by his loving family.

He was born July 29, 1948 in Royse City, Texas to the late Odus and Kathyleen Walser; he moved to Lake Wales from Belle Glade in 1974. Rip was a retired insurance agent and a veteran of the United States Army. He had a minor degree in music and a bachelor’s in agriculture from the University of Florida. Rip enjoyed fishing and golfing, and was a fan of football. He loved spending time with his sons, granddaughters, and cats.

Rip is survived by his wife of 40 years, Beverly Walser; sons, Shane (Megan) Walser of Lake Wales and Danny (Christine) Walser of Peoria, Arizona; sisters, Jeweldeen Carlton of Buda, Texas and Rene Wisniewski of Apachee Junction, Arizona; brother, Linn (Beverly) Denton of Texas; nephew, Sid Carlton of Buda, Texas; and four granddaughters.

A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Monday, December 16, 2024 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales with Pastor Scott Thompson officiating. Interment will follow. 

Winter Haven Man Dies in Motorcycle Accident

Staff Reporter
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Winter Haven Man Dies in Motorcycle Accident

On December 13, 2024 at 2:40 p.m., Florida Highway Patrol responded to a motorcycle crash in Hillsborough County on I-275.

Vehicle 1, a Harley Davidson motorcycle, driven by a 47-year-old Winter Haven man, was traveling northbound on I-275 in the outside lane north of Milepost 43. Vehicle 2, a Tesla Model 3, driven by a 49-year-old Lithia woman, was traveling northbound on the I-275 entrance ramp adjacent to Vehicle 1.  Vehicle 1 drove across the gore at the entrance ramp and collided with the left rear of Vehicle 2.  Post-impact, Vehicle 1 came to rest in the outside northbound lane of I-275 while Vehicle 2 came to a controlled stop along the outside shoulder of the highway.  Transported to an area hospital, Driver 1 later expired from injuries suffered during the crash.  Driver 2 and her 19-year-old female passenger suffered no injuries during the incident.

Upcoming Road Closures for Lake Wales Christmas Parade Tonight

Staff Reporter
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Upcoming Road Closures for Lake Wales Christmas Parade Tonight

City of Lake Wales – On Saturday, December 14, 2024, portions of select streets will be closed for the annual Christmas parade. Closures will begin at 3pm and will remain closed until 9pm. The select streets consist of:

  • First Street from Polk Avenue to Central Avenue
  • Central Avenue from First Street to Lakeshore Boulevard
  • Lakeshore Boulevard from Central Avenue to Park Avenue

Motorists are advised to follow detour markers and allow extra time during your commute.

Traffic Collision Near Lake Wales Wal-Mart

Staff Reporter
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Traffic Collision Near Lake Wales Wal-Mart

At approximately 12:27pm on Saturday, December 14, 2024, a traffic collision was reported at Hunt Brothers Rd. and Sam Walton Way, near the entrance to Rural King.

The accident is said to involve a silver Dodge Ram and another truck. Injuries are unknown at this time. Please avoid this area as law enforcement works at the scene.

Traffic Accident at Hwy. 27 / ABC Rd., NB Lane Blockage

Staff Reporter
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Traffic Accident at Hwy. 27 / ABC Rd., NB Lane Blockage

At approximately 11:47 am on Saturday, December 14, 2024, a traffic collision was reported involving two vehicles near the intersection of US Hwy. 27 and Hwy 640 (Alturas Babson Park Cutoff Rd. In Lake Wales.

There is road blockage in the northbound lanes of Hwy. 27. The two vehicles involved, a Ford F-350 and a Honda Accord, are said to have sustained moderate damage. This story may be updated once further information is available.

In Loving Memory of Barbara Jean Collins, 72, of Lake Wales

Staff Reporter
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In Loving Memory of Barbara Jean Collins, 72, of Lake Wales

Barbara Jean Collins, 72

Barbara Jean Collins of Lake Wales passed away Thursday, December 12, 2024 at AdventHealth Lake Wales under the care of Vitas Hospice.

She was born June 18, 1952 in Lake Wales to the late Albert and Louise Jones. Barbara was a citrus grader for Hunt Brothers Citrus for 28 years before retiring. She attended Grace Life Church  and was previously the pianist for Walker Street Church of God. Barbara enjoyed singing, dancing, playing the piano, and listening to gospel music. She would always help anyone in need.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and her sister. She is survived by her husband of 33 years, Mickle Collins; daughter, Megan Deanne Collins of Lake Wales; son, Andy Brian Collins of Sebring; brothers, Buddy Jones, Donald Jones, and Robert Jones; and five grandchildren.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral service at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales. A private family interment will be held. 

Man Fleeing Shoplifting Theft Allegedly Commits Carjacking In Lake Wales Before Getting Arrested

Carl Fish
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Man Fleeing Shoplifting Theft Allegedly Commits Carjacking In Lake Wales Before Getting Arrested

On December 13th, officers responded to a stolen vehicle fromTaylor Groves Subdivision. Officers were made aware the suspect, identified as Dwayne Edward Williams age 56 of Pompano Beach Florida, attempted to steal merchandise from the Walmart Supercenter and fled when confronted by loss prevention employees. Williams fled into the Taylor Groves Community where he confronted the owner/victim of a 2016 Ford Edge. As the victim was attempting to gather his mail from the community mailbox, Williams approached the running vehicle. As the victim attempted to stop Williams from stealing the vehicle, he entered the vehicle and accelerated striking the victim with the vehicle and knocking the victim to the ground.The victim received minor injuries.

Shortly after, officers located the vehicle on Lilly Street and attempted to make contact when Williams fled in the 2016 Ford Edge. Officers pursued the vehicle to the area of 1st Street and Stuart Avenue. Due to the heavy crowds in the area, officers executed a PIT maneuver (precision immobilization technique) in order to bring the vehicle to a complete stop where Williamswas quickly apprehended.

Williams was charged with carjacking, fleeing to elude, battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting an officer with violence and felony retail theft.

2024 Bartow Magical Illumination Christmas Parade Is Tonight

Carl Fish
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2024 Bartow Magical Illumination Christmas Parade Is Tonight

Experience the Joy of the 2024 Bartow Magical Illumination Christmas Parade

The beloved Bartow Magical Illumination Christmas Parade is set to light up the streets of downtown Bartow, Florida, bringing festive cheer to residents and visitors alike. Scheduled for Friday, December 13, 2024, this highly anticipated event promises a night of holiday magic, community spirit, and dazzling displays.

The parade, has become a treasured tradition in Bartow. Beginning at 6:00 PM, it will feature dozens of brightly illuminated floats, Bartow marching band, and performers decked out in holiday splendor.

Spectators can line up along the parade route to enjoy the spectacle, with festivities kicking off from Broadway Avenue and winding through the heart of downtown. Local businesses and vendors will be offering seasonal treats, crafts, and gifts, making it a perfect opportunity to shop local and support the community.

The evening will also feature a special appearance from Santa Claus, who will close out the parade in his signature sleigh, spreading holiday cheer to kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re a Bartow local or visiting for the holidays, the Magical Illumination Christmas Parade is a must-attend event. Bring your family, bundle up in holiday attire, and prepare to be swept away by the festive spirit of Bartow’s most magical night of the year!

Road Closure Alert for Annual Santa’s Run

Staff Reporter
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Road Closure Alert for Annual Santa’s Run

ROAD & LANE CLOSURE NOTICE
Saturday, Dec. 14 from 6 am – 10 am, the Annual Santa’s Run for Kids will take place from downtown around Lake Silver and back. Drivers will see temporary lane closures and road closures through the morning. Detour signs will be directing drivers around the event. South Lake Silver Dr will be closed along with Unity Way and 4th St NW. Lane closures will occur along E. Lake Silver Dr and Ave. M NW.
This wonderful annual event is all for a good “Clause”.

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