LAKELAND, Fla. – Authorities have released the identities of the two men who died in a tragic incident on Pirates Way on Monday, which the Polk County Sheriff’s Office is investigating as a double homicide. The event began with a shooting and culminated in a vehicle crashing into a residential structure.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the driver of the white Mercedes AMG involved in the crash has been identified as Davin Boutwell, 19, of Mulberry. The second victim, discovered underneath the crashed vehicle, was identified as Nathaniel Jones, 38, of Lakeland.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said that the incident occurred around 1:30 PM on Monday when the Mercedes pulled into the Secret Cove area and was approached by several other individuals. Investigators believe an attempted drug rip-off led to Boutwell being shot while in the vehicle. He then sped away, losing control before crashing into the home and striking Jones, who was riding his electric bicycle nearby.
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In an update on Tuesday, Judd commented on the tragedy, stating, “It is truly unfortunate for the family that a 19-year-old who was attempting to sell drugs was murdered. And the man riding his bicycle was murdered for being in the wrong place at the wrong time; that is totally unacceptable. Drugs, guns, and youth is a deadly cocktail.”
Preliminary evidence found in the Mercedes included marijuana and cash. Investigators believe Jones was an innocent bystander with no connection to the initial altercation, tragically caught in the path of the fleeing vehicle.
The investigation remains ongoing. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information regarding this case to come forward.
READ: Bicyclist Killed In Monday Night Crash Near Auburndale: Polk County Sheriff
Those who wish to remain anonymous and be eligible for a $5,000 reward can contact Heartland Crime Stoppers in one of four ways:
- CALL 1-888-400 TIPS (8477) Heartland Crime Stoppers Florida
- **DIAL TIPS from your cell phone
- VISIT www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on “Submit A Tip”
- DOWNLOAD the free “P3tips” app on your smartphone or tablet
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