Polk City, FL – A tragic single-vehicle crash on the morning of January 17, 2024, resulted in the death of 40-year-old Steven Russell of Polk City. The accident occurred near 9950 Wilder Road, west of Polk City, with first responders arriving at the scene around 9:23 am.
Upon arrival, Mr. Russell was discovered with significant injuries. He had not been wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. Polk County Fire Rescue transported him to a local hospital, where he was sadly declared deceased shortly after arrival.
Traffic Homicide detectives from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, alongside the PCSO’s Forensic Investigations unit, are investigating the circumstances of the crash. Preliminary evidence indicates that Mr. Russell’s vehicle, a silver 2007 Volvo XC 90 SUV, veered off the right shoulder of Wilder Road. The SUV then collided with and broke a wood power pole before coming to a halt against a tree.
Investigators noted that there was no evidence of braking or corrective steering before the crash. Mr. Russell is believed to have been driving home, as the crash site was less than a mile from his residence.
The investigation is ongoing as detectives work to determine the cause of the accident.