MULBERRY, Polk County, Fla., Oct. 31, 2026 — A head-on crash closed Highway 37 South near Main Avenue in Mulberry on Saturday, October 31. At least one person died, and the two-vehicle collision shut the roadway in all directions.
The crash near Highway 37 South and Main Avenue left both vehicles with heavy damage, according to Polk County Fire Rescue, which responded to the scene. At least one person was reported trapped inside a vehicle, and crews worked to free them.
Officials asked drivers to avoid the area while crews worked the scene. The road closure affected travel in both directions near the Bradley Junction area as personnel cleared the wreckage.
Details on what led to the crash have not been released. The circumstances remain under investigation, and officials have not said whether speed, impairment, or another factor played a role.
We are deeply sorry for the loss suffered by the victim's family.
Intersection Safety in Florida
The fatal crash was reported at Highway 37 and Main Avenue in Mulberry. Readers following crash news in Polk County can find more about intersections across the state on our guide to Florida intersections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if an oncoming car drifts into my lane?
Slow down, steer right toward the shoulder, and avoid swerving left into oncoming traffic. Sounding your horn or flashing your lights can help alert the other driver.
What injuries are common in head-on crashes?
Head-on collisions frequently cause chest, head, and leg injuries, along with broken bones, due to the combined speed of both vehicles at impact.
What typically causes head-on crashes?
Common causes include a driver crossing the centerline due to distraction, impairment, fatigue, or attempting to pass unsafely on a two-lane road.
Why are head-on crashes usually so serious?
Because both vehicles are usually moving toward each other, the combined speed at the moment of impact is much higher than in a typical rear-end or side crash, resulting in greater force on the vehicles and occupants.
