Fatal Crash Investigation - 1300 US Highway 98 South
FATAL CRASH INVESTIGATION
LAKELAND, FL (June 10, 2025) - On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at approximately 5:56 a.m., officers responded to a traffic crash near the 1300 block of U.S. 98 South. Just prior to the crash, a grey 2021 Tesla was traveling north on US Highway 98 South in the inside lane of travel. At the same time, a pedestrian was crossing US Highway 98 South in the marked crosswalk. The Tesla impacted the pedestrian in the crosswalk then stopped and remained at the scene. It should be noted the Tesla had a green light and the pedestrian walking signal indicated do not walk.
The Lakeland Police Department Patrol Units, Polk County Fire Rescue, and the Lakeland Fire Department all responded, and the pedestrian was declared deceased at the scene. The driver of the Tesla had no apparent injuries but was transported to Lakeland Regional Health via ambulance.
Members of the Traffic Homicide Unit responded to the scene and took over the investigation. The roadway was shut down for approximately four hours while the scene was processed.
This remains an open and active investigation. If anyone has any additional information regarding the crash, please contact investigating Officer Travis Payne at Travis.payne@lakelandgov.net.
The Pedestrian (deceased) was identified as:
Jerald King
Age 68
Lakeland, FL
The Tesla operator was identified as:
Joshua Bartos
Age 27
Lakeland, FL
Media inquiries should be directed to mediarelations@lakelandgov.net.