PCSO Press Release
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal crash that occurred Tuesday night, June 23, 2026, near Babson Park.
Deputies were dispatched at around 10:33 pm along with Polk County Fire Rescue to the 2-vehicle crash on Scenic Hwy (SR 17) east of Ward Loop Road.
Upon the arrival of first responders, a 56-year-old Lake Wales woman was found deceased.
The victim had been operating an electric bicycle when it was struck from behind by a 2022 Jeep TrackHawk, driven by a 30-year-old male from Lake Wales.
The driver of the Jeep was not injured. He remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation.
Based on evidence and statements at the scene, it was determined that the e-bike was traveling west on the westbound lane of Scenic Hwy.
The bike was approximately 2-3 feet away from the edge of the road when it was struck from behind by the Jeep that was also traveling west.
The victim was not wearing a helmet but was wearing an orange reflective vest. Her bike was equipped with front and back lights. Due to the damages, it could not be determined if her lights were operating before the crash occurred.
The driver of the Jeep said that he did not see lights prior to impact.
The victim was traveling from work to her home, which are about 15 miles apart.
Scenic Hwy was closed in both directions for about three hours.
No criminal or civil charges are anticipated at this time, but the investigation remains open.
