Highland City – Police confirmed that an 18-year-old motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene of a collision on Friday afternoon, shortly before 3:30 p.m. The crash occurred at the intersection of Hancock Avenue Southeast and U.S. 98 South.
What investigators say
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the teenager was traveling north on U.S. 98, speeding and changing lanes to pass other vehicles. At the same time, a Mitsubishi vehicle entered the northbound lanes from Hancock Avenue Southeast and attempted to cross over to the southbound lanes. The Mitsubishi pulled directly into the motorcycle’s path, striking the rider’s rear passenger door.
The impact forced the motorcyclist from his bike. First responders arrived quickly and performed lifesaving measures, but the young man was pronounced dead at the scene. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Driver’s condition
Investigators noted that the driver of the Mitsubishi was not wearing a seat belt. The driver was taken to a local hospital with injuries described as non‑life‑threatening. No further details about the driver’s identity have been released.
Ongoing investigation
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. Authorities have not yet released the name of the driver involved, and no charges have been announced pending the outcome of the investigation.
Residents are reminded to exercise caution when traveling on U.S. 98, especially at busy intersections. The sheriff’s office encourages anyone with additional information about the crash to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
