Polk County Sheriff's Office deputies are investigating a fatal crash in Lakeland involving a vehicle colliding with a man riding a motorized wheelchair scooter.

  • Willard Miller, 69, killed in collision
  • Witnesses, evidence point to Miller veering into traffic
  • No charges pending

Deputies said around 4:30 p.m. Willard Miller, 69, was operating his three-wheeled mobility scooter along the median break of U.S. Highway 98 northbound near the intersection of Thomas Road when according to witnesses and evidence at the scene he suddenly veered east across the roadway.

At least two vehicles were able to avoid striking Miller and his scooter, according to investigators. But a third, driven by James McNamara, 53, was unable to avoid him.

McNamara, along with other drivers, immediately stopped to help Miller, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

U.S. 98 northbound remained in the area of Thomas Road until 9:46 p.m. for the crash investigation.

No other information has been released.