2 killed in fiery Polk County crash involving semi-truck, box truck: PCSO

MULBERRY, Fla. - Two drivers were killed in a Polk County crash involving a semi-truck and a box truck early Wednesday morning, according to authorities. 

The Polk County Sheriff's Office said the crash happened about 16 miles south of Mulberry on SR 37 and Fort Green Mine Road at around 8 a.m.

Deputies were dispatched to the area, and they said the driver behind the wheel of a white Isuzu box truck and the driver in the white 1999 Peterbilt semi-truck with a dump trailer were found dead at the scene. 

Fire crews also responded after a fire from both vehicles spread to nearby grass and brush, according to deputies. However, the fire was quickly extinguished.

PCSO's traffic homicide unit said they believe the box truck was heading south on SR 37 behind several other vehicles while the semi-truck was heading north. As the vehicles approached the intersection, deputies said a vehicle was making a left turn onto Fort Green Mine Road.

Investigators believe the box truck didn't notice the vehicle in front slowing down, and swerved into the northbound lane to avoid a crash. However, authorities said the driver swerved into the oncoming semi-truck.

The drivers involved, a woman and a man, have not been identified by PCSO officials.

SR 37 was shut down in the area for more than seven hours, and it didn't reopen until 3:45 p.m., deputies said.

SIGN UP: Click here to sign up for the FOX 13 daily newsletter