A Thursday night in Winter Haven turned deadly when a CSX freight train struck and killed a pedestrian at a local railroad crossing, authorities said. The collision happened shortly after 8 p.m. near the tracks at 3rd Street Southwest and Cypress Gardens Boulevard Southwest. Emergency crews pronounced the victim dead at the scene, and members of the train crew were reported uninjured. Officials have not yet released the person's name as investigators continue to process the area.
What officials say
According to FOX 13, CSX told reporters the train struck a person who was on the tracks and said the company "extends its condolences" to those affected. The railroad added that it will support local law enforcement throughout the investigation. The Polk County Emergency Communications Center responded to the scene and later confirmed the person died from their injuries. CSX also told the outlet that members of the train crew were not injured.
Local context
The Polk County Sheriff's Office has dealt with similar railroad deaths in recent years. As detailed by the Polk County Sheriff's Office, deputies conducted a death investigation after a CSX train struck a man in Auburndale in July 2025. Those earlier reports note that deputies typically coordinate with the railroad and the medical examiner while detectives work to reconstruct what happened.
What investigators are looking for
Authorities said they are trying to determine why the person was on the tracks and cautioned that details remain limited while next of kin are notified and the medical examiner is involved. Per FOX 13, no additional information has been released, and investigators have not said whether any safety equipment at the crossing was functioning or whether roadway closures were necessary.
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