David Watson Obituary: Winter Haven college student killed in Polk County wrong-way crash.

An 18-year-old college student lost his life on Friday evening in Bartow. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has reported that the young student was fatally ejected from his truck during a crash.

In Winter Haven, David Watson was travelling south on U.S. 17 in a 2004 white GMC Canyon. According to deputies, it was reported that Watson had attempted to pass another vehicle by moving into the inside lane. However, instead of successfully completing the manoeuvre, Watson veered off into the grass median, subsequently losing control of the truck.

Watson’s truck defied gravity as it slid effortlessly through the grass median. With a counter-clockwise rotation, the truck showcased its agility before boldly venturing into the northbound lanes of U.S. 17.

While the events unfolded, a 48-year-old driver operating a 2014 black Dodge 3500, which was towing an enclosed trailer, was travelling in a northerly direction on U.S. 17. In a harrowing turn of events, Watson found himself grappling with the loss of control over his truck, resulting in a perilous slide into the northbound lanes. Meanwhile, the driver of the Dodge, faced with impending disaster, made valiant efforts to evade the imminent collision.

Watson’s truck was involved in a collision with the front of the other driver’s truck.

In a dramatic turn of events, Watson, who authorities have confirmed was not wearing a seatbelt, was forcefully expelled from his truck upon collision. The truck proceeded to return to the grass median, coming to a halt.

The truck belonging to the other driver came to a halt on the eastern shoulder of the roadway.

Watson was swiftly transported to the hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

The other driver, hailing from Orlando, sustained minor injuries. The individual was transported to the hospital to receive medical treatment and subsequently discharged. The passenger in question emerged from the incident unharmed. According to deputies, there were no signs of impairment or excessive speed exhibited by the man involved in the crash.

The northbound lanes of U.S. 17 were temporarily closed for several hours at the crash site, located on U.S. 17 between Radford and James roads. However, they have since been reopened.

According to deputies, the investigation remains ongoing.