A 35-year-old man from Waverly died Saturday afternoon following a serious traffic collision involving a motorcycle and an SUV, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash occurred at approximately 2:57 p.m. on February 7, 2026, near the intersection of Waverly Road and Hodge Street. Deputies with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit responded to the scene and are continuing to investigate the incident.
Investigators reported that a 2015 Toyota Highlander was traveling eastbound on Waverly Road while a motorcycle operated by David Durham was traveling westbound on the same roadway. Authorities believe the motorcycle was traveling at a speed exceeding the posted 35-mile-per-hour limit at the time of the collision.
According to preliminary findings, the driver of the Highlander attempted to make a left turn onto Hodge Street, crossing into the westbound lane and into the path of the oncoming motorcycle. The vehicles collided, ejecting Durham from the motorcycle. He came to rest along the north shoulder of Waverly Road.
Officials stated that Durham was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. When first responders arrived, he was found unresponsive while a bystander was performing CPR. Emergency medical personnel transported him to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The driver of the Toyota Highlander and two passengers sustained minor injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Authorities confirmed that all occupants of the SUV were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit continues to investigate all contributing factors, including speed and right-of-way. No charges have been announced, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Officials are reminding motorists to exercise caution at intersections, remain alert for motorcycles, and wear proper safety equipment. They emphasized that helmets significantly reduce the risk of severe injury or death in motorcycle crashes.