Driver Comes Under Fire On Polk Highway

AUBURNDALE, FL — A 56-year-old Auburndale man came under fire Friday night as he was driving a commercial van along Interstate 4 near mile marker 52, according to Florida Highway Patrol.

The driver, whose name is being withheld by Patch, was carrying supplies for Brine’s Refrigeration, Heating and Cooling of Michigan shortly before 7 p.m. when the attack occurred.

The driver "reported his vehicle had been shot at and struck by a bullet near the 52 milepost while he was driving in the westbound center lane by an unknown assailant using a handgun as he drove past the victim in the outside lane," Florida Highway Patrol reported on Saturday.

The bullet struck the rear passenger side of the 2018 Ford Transit van.

The driver told FHP that he saw a handgun "followed by a muzzle flash" but was unable to provide a description of the shooter or shooter's vehicle.

To report a tip, call the Florida Highway Patrol by calling 813-558-1800 or dial *FHP (*347). Anonymous tips can be provided to Heartland Crime Stoppers at 800-226-8477.