Fatal Crash Investigation / 1600 George Jenkins Boulevard

Fatal Crash Investigation / 1600 George Jenkins Boulevard

FATAL CRASH INVESTIGATION

LAKELAND, FL (May 6, 2026) - On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at approximately 12:38 p.m., officers responded to a traffic crash in the 1600 block of George Jenkins Boulevard. Just prior to the crash, a black Nissan SUV was traveling east on George Jenkins Boulevard. At the same time, a yellow motorcycle was traveling west on George Jenkins Boulevard. Upon entering the intersection, the Nissan made a left turn in front of the motorcycle which impacted the Nissan on the passenger side.

The Lakeland Police Department Patrol Units, Polk County Fire Rescue, and the Lakeland Fire Department all arrived on scene to provide life saving measures. The motorcyclist was transported to Lakeland Regional Health (LRH) where despite the best efforts of medical professionals was pronounced deceased. The driver of the Nissan did not sustain injuries.

Members of the Traffic Homicide Unit responded to the scene and took over the investigation. The roadway was shut down for approximately two and a half hours while the scene was processed.

This remains an open and active investigation. If anyone has any additional information regarding the crash, please contact investigating Officer Travis Payne at [email protected].

The motorcycle (deceased) driver was identified as:

Alexander Baerhold

Age 29

Lakeland, FL

The Nissan SUV driver was identified as:

Leah Sykes

Age: 35

Spring Hill, FL

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