The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit is investigating a fatal hit and run crash which occurred in unincorporated Lakeland, at about 6:13 PM, Sunday, December 5, 2021.
A work van struck a bicyclist on 1st Street NW, near Stroud Road, in the Kathleen area of Lakeland.
The work van then sped away from the scene.
The bicyclist passed away from injuries a short time later.
36-year old Antonio Adam Smiley was struck and seriously injured at around 6:13 PM as he rode his bicycle.
When deputies and members from Polk County Fire Rescue arrived on scene, Mr. Smiley was speaking to them. He was transported to a local hospital with what appeared to be non-life threatening injuries, but passed away after arriving.
Traffic Homicide detectives believe the suspect vehicle is an older model white Ford E350 work van. The van likely has damage to the right front area (passenger side), including a non-working right front headlight.
“The driver of the van knew that a person was struck, and then made no effort to check on Mr. Smiley. He or she showed no concern for Mr. Smiley’s condition. In fact, the only concern the driver had was to get away as quickly as possible. I can promise you, our detectives are going to do everything they can to find that van and the person responsible.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff.
If you have any information regarding this crash or the suspect vehicle, please call the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 863-298-6200.