Florida Man Killed in Deadly Underride Crash After Car Slides Beneath Semi-Truck in Davenport Early Morning Collision
FLORIDA — A 61-year-old man from Zephyrhills was killed early Saturday morning after his car became trapped beneath a semi-truck during a deadly underride crash in Davenport, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said the fatal collision occurred around 5:45 a.m. on Deen Still Road, leaving the driver with fatal injuries at the scene.
How the Crash Happened
Investigators said the victim was traveling eastbound when a semi-truck pulling a trailer attempted to make a westbound turn while exiting an entrance near a sand mine on Wheeler Road.
Authorities stated that the trailer extended across the roadway, leaving insufficient clearance for the approaching car. The vehicle struck the trailer and slid underneath it, resulting in what investigators classified as an underride crash.
The semi-truck was operated by a 21-year-old man from Georgia. No injuries were reported involving the truck driver.
What Is an Underride Crash
An underride crash occurs when a passenger vehicle or motorcycle travels beneath the rear or side of a tractor-trailer, often causing catastrophic or fatal injuries due to the height difference between vehicles. Authorities confirmed the victim was the only person inside the car at the time of the crash.
Road Closures and Investigation
The roadway remained closed for approximately four hours as deputies processed the scene and removed debris.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. No charges have been announced at this time.
Crash Data Highlights Ongoing Safety Concerns
Preliminary data from the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles shows Polk County has recorded 350 crashes so far in 2026, resulting in 247 injuries and two fatalities.
In 2025, the county experienced 12,698 crashes, leading to 99 deaths and more than 10,000 injuries statewide, underscoring ongoing concerns about roadway safety.
Anyone with additional information related to the crash is encouraged to contact local authorities.
For continued coverage of breaking news, public safety updates, and traffic investigations across Florida and the Southeast, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com and join the conversation.
