Fatal Crash Investigation - 5700 State Road 33
FATAL CRASH INVESTIGATION
LAKELAND, FL (June 28, 2026) - On Sunday, June 28, 2026, at approximately 12:37 a.m., officers responded to a traffic crash involving a pedestrian in the 5700 block of State Road 33. Just prior to the crash, a black Mitsubishi SUV was traveling southbound on State Road 33. At the same time, a pedestrian entered into the path of the Mitsubishi for unknown reasons and was struck by the vehicle.
The Lakeland Police Department Patrol Units, Polk County Fire Rescue, and the Lakeland Fire Department all arrived on scene to provide life saving measures. The pedestrian was transported to Lakeland Regional Health where, despite the best efforts of medical professionals, was pronounced deceased. The driver of the Mitsubishi was not injured.
Members of the Traffic Homicide Unit responded to the scene and took over the investigation. The roadway was shut down for approximately three and a half hours while the scene was processed.
This remains an open and active investigation. The adult female pedestrian has been identified, however, investigators are still working to notify the next of kin and her name is being withheld at this time.
If anyone has additional information regarding the crash, please contact investigating Officer Travis Payne at Travis.payne@lakelandgov.net.
The Mitsubishi driver was identified as:
Demetrius Berry
Age 48
Lakeland, FL