A late-night drive on State Road 33 turned deadly earlier yesterday when a woman walked into the path of a southbound SUV in Lakeland, according to police. Officers were called to the 5700 block of State Road 33 at about 12:37 a.m. yesterday, where they found a seriously injured pedestrian who was rushed to Lakeland Regional Health and later pronounced dead. The driver, identified as 48-year-old Lakeland resident Demetrius Berry, was not hurt and stayed at the scene.
What Investigators Say
According to the Tampa Free Press, investigators say the woman entered the travel lane of a southbound black Mitsubishi on State Road 33 and was struck. First responders transported her to Lakeland Regional Health, where medical staff later pronounced her dead.
Members of the Lakeland Police Department Traffic Homicide Unit responded and took over the case, closing the 5700 block of State Road 33 for roughly three and a half hours while detectives documented the scene and collected evidence. Authorities are withholding the victim’s name until her family has been notified.
SR 33 Safety Work Under Way
State Road 33 has already been on transportation officials’ radar. The corridor is part of a Florida Department of Transportation Complete Streets overhaul meant to add sidewalks, upgraded lighting and mid-block pedestrian crossings along Lakeland Hills Boulevard, according to FDOT District One.
The project, with an estimated cost of about $27.6 million, began in late 2024 and is being built in phases through 2026–27. Portions of the area have seen lane shifts and temporary detours while crews work. State and city officials say the improvements are designed to boost safety for people walking and biking as well as for drivers.
How to Help
As outlined in a Lakeland Police Department news release, investigators are asking anyone who may have seen the crash or has relevant information to contact Officer Travis Payne at [email protected]. The Traffic Homicide Unit continues to process evidence, and the case remains an open, active investigation.
Police have not announced any charges in connection with the crash. The Tampa Free Press reported the initial details as authorities worked the scene.
