DUI driver killed one in this flaming wreck on I-4 Polk County Florida. Photo courtesy of Lakeland Fire Department.
Florida Highway Patrol
From Lakeland Fire Department: At approximately 3 AM
Travis Wade Coats killed Demerrio Tobler in DUI crash on I-4 Polk County 011417
At approximately 3 AM #LFD Engine 31, 61, and Battalion 2 responded to the 35-mile (approx) of I-4 East Bound to a car accident that resulted in the truck involved bursting into flames soon after impact. Reports from callers report that the truck was headed west in the eastbound lanes and the driver of the truck was suspected to be under the influence. The truck made a head-on impact with a small sedan, resulting in the passing, at the scene, of the sedan’s driver.
This information is shared as a sobering safety reminder that driving under the influence is unacceptable and has real and lethal consequences. If you ever suspect any unsafe, erratic driving while on the roads, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Lakeland Police Department, Florida Highway Patrol, and Polk County EMS also responded.
Travis Wade Coats, 24, of 226 Bayberry Drive, was charged with DUI manslaughter, DUI property damage, DUI and driving in the wrong direction, said Sgt. Steve Gaskins of the Florida Highway Patrol.
Demerrio Alistaire Tobler, 32, of St. Petersburg, died at the scene.
Also injured in the three-vehicle accident was Emily Jean Smart, 23, of Lakeland.
Demerrio Tobler killed in DUI head on crash by Travis Wade Coats 011417
The Official Celebration of Life, Memorial Choir Rehearsal, and
Lodging & Preparations
Information for Elder Demerrio A Tobler! See Flyers Below for all Needed information. Please contact Bishop Zema Florence for any additional questions.
Thank you to everyone who has given, but there is still a long way to go to make and exceed our goal!
Pickup blazes in DUI crash Polk County Fla 011417 photo Lakeland Fire Department