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A tragic accident that occurred outside of a 7-11 store in Winter Haven, Florida resulted in the death of a 60-year-old Polk County, Florida Sergeant, Wesley Whitmore, Jr. Whitmore was a member of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office for 15 years. How the accident occurred is somewhat bizarre. According to officials, a Cadillac Escalade crashed through metal barriers along a highway, hit the corner of a business store, Wanda’s Collectibles, the owner of the store, Wanda Perez, and continued through the 7-11 parking lot. Whitmore had just parked and stepped outside of his vehicle when he was struck by the SUV, propelling Whitmore and spinning the car 180 degrees. The SUV continued down an embankment into a retention pond, then back up onto the highway and finally coming to a stop.
The driver of the Escalade was identified as 79-year-old Leo Saunders. It is unclear why Saunders lost control of the vehicle, but Saunders’ wife says he blacked out. Whitmore was transported to Winter Haven Hospital where he was pronounced dead short after his arrival. Saunders was transported to the same hospital with non-life-threatening personal injuries. Perez, the owner of the business, Wanda’s Collectibles, was also taken to the hospital with significant personal injuries. Both Saunders and Perez are expected to be fine. If you would like to read more on this story please see Polk County Sergeant killed after bizarre car accident at 7-11 store.
The death of Sgt. Whitmore is a tragedy for his family and community. Florida drivers must understand the responsibility they take on when they step behind the wheel. Drivers should not drive if they have been experiencing medical symptoms or are otherwise feelings ill. Attentiveness, alertness and staying focused on the road are the key to safe driving.