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Haines City Man Arrested for DUI Manslaughter Following Fatal Crash

Polk County Sheriff's deputies arrested a 53-year-old Haines City man for DUI manslaughter after a three-vehicle crash on Canal Road in Lake Wales resulted in the death of a 17-year-old dirt bike rider. The suspect, who had a suspended license and an outstanding warrant, allegedly attempted to pass vehicles in a no-passing zone while impaired.

public safetylaw enforcementtraffic accidentDUIcriminal justice
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Why It Matters

A fatal traffic incident has resulted in criminal charges against a local resident, highlighting ongoing enforcement of DUI laws and traffic safety regulations in Polk County.

Key Facts

  • Ricky Morris Willis was arrested for DUI manslaughter (F2), DUI with property damage (M1), driving while license suspended (M1), and 2 counts of child neglect (F3).
  • The crash occurred on July 1, 2026, at approximately 6:40 p.m. on Canal Road in Lake Wales.
  • A 17-year-old dirt bike rider died as a result of the collision.
  • The suspect was driving a 2010 Ford F-150 and attempted to pass two vehicles in an eastbound lane marked with double yellow lines.
  • The suspect's license has been suspended since 2016.
  • The suspect had an outstanding warrant for failure to pay child support.
  • The suspect had two teenagers as passengers in his truck at the time of the crash.
  • Breath alcohol tests conducted at 12:14 a.m. showed levels of 0.071 and 0.070.
  • A blood sample has been sent to the FDLE for further testing.
  • The driver of the third vehicle involved, a 2013 Volkswagen, was not injured.

Who's Mentioned

personGrady Judd“Sheriff of Polk County.”organizationFDLE“Florida Department of Law Enforcement, processing blood samples.”personCarrie Horstman“Media Relations Administrator for the Polk County Sheriff's Office.”personRicky Morris Willis“53-year-old Haines City man arrested for DUI manslaughter and other charges.”organizationPolk County Sheriff’s Office“Law enforcement agency investigating the crash and making the arrest.”