Lake Wales Police Department officers responded to a two-vehicle crash on North Scenic Highway, just north of Florida Avenue on Sunday that has left an elderly Polk County man dead and his wife seriously injured.
According to police, 26-year-old Kristina Fitts of Winter Haven was traveling south in her 2012 Cadillac when she crossed over the center double yellow lines and into the northbound lanes. Her vehicle then struck the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu driven by 89-year-old Elmer Lear and hi wife, 80-year-old Janet Lear. The impact of the vehicles was nearly a head-on collision.
Ms. Fitts was transported to Lake Wales Medical Center and was released after being treated.
Mr. Lear was airlifted by medical helicopter to Lakeland Regional Medical Center where he later died from his injuries. Mrs. Lear was also transported to LRMC and was listed in critical, but stable condition.
The official cause of the crash in unknown at this time.
This is an on-going investigation and anyone with information should contact Officer Jerome 863-678-4223 Ext. 520.
