Eagle Lake, Fla. – The community of Eagle Lake is grieving the loss of Hector Cruz, a volunteer chaplain for Polk County Fire Rescue who was killed early Wednesday morning in a traffic collision.
Chaplain’s service and background
Hector Cruz had served as a volunteer chaplain for the Polk County Fire Rescue department for four years, providing spiritual support and counseling to firefighters and their families throughout the Winter Haven area. Prior to his chaplaincy, Cruz retired after a career as a police officer in New York, bringing a lifetime of public‑service experience to his role in Florida.
Details of the crash
According to Polk County deputies, Cruz was leaving a fire station when a southbound dump truck failed to stop at a red light at the intersection of Highway 17 and West Eagle Avenue. The 30‑year‑old truck driver struck Cruz’s car, pushing both vehicles nearly a block onto the next street before coming to rest. Cruz was pronounced dead at the scene.
Reactions from first‑responders
Tom Konze, vice president of Polk County Professional Firefighters Local 3531, said, “We respond to terrible calls, and it’s always nice to have somebody like Chaplain Cruz to make sure somebody’s there for us.” Konze described Cruz as a devoted family man, a beloved grandfather, a loving husband, and a dedicated member of the department who cared deeply for his colleagues.
Community concerns about the intersection
Dauphne Railey, owner of Dauphne’s Hair Salon nearby, called 911 after hearing the crash. She noted that accidents at the Highway 17 and West Eagle Avenue intersection occur roughly once a month. “We have another death. This is not the first one. How many people have to die right here that we have to watch?” Railey said, expressing frustration that the dangerous crossing continues to claim lives.
Investigation and honors
Authorities have not yet released a definitive cause for the fatal crash, and the investigation remains ongoing. Polk County officials confirmed that Cruz will receive a full line‑of‑duty honors service, including the traditional last bell and last call to recognize his sacrifice.
Support for fire‑station crews
In the days following the tragedy, four volunteer chaplains will visit each fire station on Thursday to offer emotional support and check on the wellbeing of crews still processing the loss.
Looking ahead
The incident has reignited calls from local business owners and first‑responders for safety improvements at the intersection. While no official changes have been announced, community leaders hope that the tragedy will prompt a review of traffic signals and signage to prevent future accidents.
Hector Cruz’s family, friends, and fellow firefighters plan to honor his memory in the days ahead, remembering a man who dedicated his life to serving others both in law enforcement and in spiritual ministry.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
