2 killed after Polk County ‘joyride’ turns deadly, deputies say

2 killed after Polk County ‘joyride’ turns deadly, deputies say

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Two people were killed in Polk County late Saturday night after their “joy ride” ended in a deadly crash, deputies said.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office said at about 11:35 p.m. Saturday, deputies were called to a crash on U.S. Highway 98 south of Smith Lane.

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Investigators said Michael Price, 66, of Miami left the Wine Bar lounge with Johnnie Levin, 54, of Bartow in his Porsche, driving north on US-98.

According to the sheriff’s office, a witness saw the pair driving without headlights before they crashed and rolled several times off the road. When the witness found the wreckage, they called 911.

Credit: Polk County Sheriff’s Office
Credit: Polk County Sheriff’s Office

The Porsche was left in numerous pieces when deputies arrived. The sheriff’s office said Michael and Johnnie were both ejected from the car and died at the scene.

Investigators said the driver’s speed contributed to the crash.

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