Authorities in Polk County are investigating a fatal crash involving two trucks that occurred Wednesday morning north of Lakeland.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to the scene just before 11 a.m. at the intersection of US 98 North and State Road 471. Emergency responders arrived to find a semi-truck involved in a serious collision.
Officials identified the victim as 44-year-old Gabriel Lorenzo Beauford of Winter Park. He was found in the cab of his truck and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the other truck, a 34-year-old man from Ocala, was not injured.
Preliminary information from investigators indicates that Beauford was traveling south on US 98 behind a truck transporting timber. Authorities said the lead truck had moved into a turn lane in preparation for a left turn onto State Road 471. Investigators believe the following vehicle did not slow in time and collided with the rear load of the truck ahead.
As a result of the impact, materials being transported extended into the cab area of the following truck. Officials also reported that some cargo from the trailer spilled onto the roadway, prompting additional safety measures at the scene.
Multiple agencies, including Polk County Fire Rescue and state environmental and transportation departments, responded to assist with cleanup and traffic control. The roadway remained closed for several hours while crews worked to clear the area and ensure it was safe for travel.
Authorities stated that the truck transporting the timber was operating in compliance with safety regulations related to its cargo. At this time, investigators do not anticipate any criminal or civil charges related to the crash.
The investigation remains ongoing as officials continue to review the circumstances surrounding the incident. Updates will be provided if new information becomes available.
