Two dead after fatal ‘joyride’ in Polk County, officials say

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Two people were killed late Saturday night in Polk County when their “joy ride” ended in a fatal crash, officials said.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office said officers were called to a crash on U.S. Highway 98 south of Smith Lane around 11:35 p.m. Saturday.

Investigators said Michael Price, 66, of Miami, left the Wine Bar Lounge with Johnnie Levin, 54, of Bartow in his Porsche and headed north on US-98.

According to the sheriff, a witness saw the couple driving without headlights before they collided and drove off the road several times. When the witness found the wreckage, he called 911.

When officers arrived, the Porsche was in numerous pieces. The sheriff’s office said Michael and Johnnie were both thrown from the car and died at the scene.

According to investigators, the driver’s speed was responsible for the accident.