Florida Paramedic and Patient Critically Injured After Ambulance Is Hit by Pickup Truck in Winter Haven, Authorities Report

FLORIDA — A paramedic and a patient were left in critical condition after a Polk County Fire Rescue ambulance was struck by a pickup truck late Sunday night in Winter Haven, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. The collision, which occurred at a busy intersection, forced authorities to shut down U.S. 27 for hours while investigators examined the scene.

Crash Occurred at U.S. 27 and Lucerne Park Road

Deputies say the ambulance was traveling with lights and sirens activated around 8:30 p.m. on December 8 as it transported a patient to Winter Haven Hospital. EMT Eryn Orduna, who was driving, slowed at a red light to check for traffic before entering the intersection.

At the same moment, a Ford F-450 pulling a trailer, driven by Yandy Baez, traveled southbound at highway speed and entered the same intersection. The truck struck the ambulance on the right front side, sending the vehicle nearly 60 feet onto the grass shoulder. The F-450 continued approximately 15 feet before stopping across two southbound lanes.

Paramedic and Patient Suffer Critical Injuries

Inside the ambulance, paramedic John Parris was caring for the patient when the force of the collision threw him from his seat. Both he and the patient suffered severe injuries and were transported to a hospital, where they remain in critical condition.

Orduna and Baez were also taken to local hospitals. Orduna has since been released, and deputies say Baez is expected to recover.

Multiple Agencies Respond; Road Shut Down for Hours

Due to the severity of the injuries, the Sheriff’s Office traffic homicide unit responded to lead the investigation. Southbound U.S. 27 was closed for roughly five hours, causing significant delays as emergency crews worked the scene and documented the crash.

Authorities have not yet announced whether charges will be filed, noting that investigators are still reviewing evidence and statements.

Community Expresses Support for Fire Rescue Personnel

The crash has drawn strong community concern, with residents expressing support for Polk County Fire Rescue staff and the injured paramedic. Local officials say updates will be shared as the investigation progresses.

Anyone who witnessed the collision or has additional information is urged to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

For continuing updates on major incidents across the region, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.