On Saturday evening at approximately 6:26 p.m., a vehicle collided with a Polk County Fire Rescue engine on State Road 60 at the Walk‑in‑Water Road intersection near Lake Wales. The fire engine was responding to an emergency call with lights and sirens activated, according to a news release from the department.

Emergency response and medical care

Fire department spokespersons confirmed that the driver of the other vehicle sustained injuries serious enough to require air evacuation. A helicopter from the local medical‑transport service lifted the driver to the nearest hospital for treatment. The swift response underscores the professionalism and readiness of Polk County’s first‑responders.

No injuries to firefighters

Fortunately, none of the Polk County Fire Rescue personnel were injured in the crash. The agency praised the quick actions of its crew and the cooperating law‑enforcement officers who arrived on scene to secure the area.

Investigation and road closure

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has opened an investigation into the cause of the collision. Eastbound traffic on State Road 60 was partially closed while investigators gathered evidence and cleared debris. Officials indicated that the roadway was expected to reopen soon, allowing commuters to resume normal travel.

Community impact

Residents of the Lake Wales area rely on the fire department’s rapid response capabilities, especially on busy corridors like State Road 60. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of yielding to emergency vehicles and exercising caution when sharing the road with first‑responders.

Looking ahead

Polk County officials reaffirm their commitment to public safety and encourage drivers to stay alert, obey traffic laws, and give right‑of‑way to emergency responders. The department will continue to monitor the investigation’s findings and take any necessary steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.