Update: Farmworker Killed When Worker Bus, Tanker Truck Crash

FORT MEADE, FL — A crash on U.S. 98 East involving a semi-tanker truck and a farmworker transport bus has killed one person and caused multiple injuries.

The crash occurred just after 6 a.m. between Adams Road and Avon Park Cutoff Road in Fort Meade. There were 38 farmworkers on the bus owned by Overlook Harvesting in Winter Haven that was headed to Plant City to pick strawberries.

The tanker truck was carrying unleaded fuel.

According to Polk Sheriff Grady Judd, the bus was heading west and crossed over into the eastbound lane and struck the eastbound tanker head on. Some fuel leaked from the tanker. The rest of the fuel was transferred to another tanker.

One farmworker died at the scene. Nine other people on the bus were transported to Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center, Sebring Hospital, Lake Wales Hospital and Tampa General Hospital.

The semi-tanker truck driver was taken to Bartow Regional Medical Center with less serious injuries.

Drivers are advised to avoid the area.