Local News
29-year-old Alexander Baerhold killed in crash on George Jenkins Boulevard in Lakeland
LAKELAND, Fla. — Authorities are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that claimed the life of a 29-year-old Lakeland man Tuesday afternoon in Lakeland.
According to the Lakeland Police Department, the collision occurred on May 5, 2026, at approximately 12:38 p.m. in the 1600 block of George Jenkins Boulevard.
Investigators said a black Nissan SUV, driven by Leah Sykes, 35, of Spring Hill, was traveling eastbound on George Jenkins Boulevard at the same time a yellow motorcycle operated by Alexander Baerhold, 29, of Lakeland, was traveling westbound.
Police said that as the vehicles entered the intersection, the Nissan attempted to make a left turn directly in front of the motorcycle.
The motorcycle then collided with the passenger side of the SUV.
Officers with the Lakeland Police Department, along with crews from Polk County Fire Rescue and the Lakeland Fire Department, responded to the scene and immediately began life-saving efforts.
Baerhold was transported to Lakeland Regional Health, where he later died despite extensive medical treatment.
Authorities said the driver of the Nissan SUV was not injured in the collision.
Members of the department’s Traffic Homicide Unit responded to the scene and assumed control of the investigation. George Jenkins Boulevard remained shut down for approximately two and a half hours while investigators processed the crash scene and collected evidence.
Officials confirmed the investigation remains open and active as detectives work to determine all contributing factors surrounding the fatal collision.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information is encouraged to contact investigating Officer Travis Payne at Travis.payne@lakelandgov.net.
The tragic death of Alexander Baerhold has left family, friends, and the Lakeland community grieving the loss of a young motorcyclist whose life ended suddenly in the midday crash.
Authorities continue reminding motorists to use caution at intersections and remain alert for motorcycles, especially during turning maneuvers where visibility and right-of-way are critical.
Local News
Train Derails in Ferguson Involving Vehicles, Hazmat Team Called Over Ethyl Alcohol Rail Car
FERGUSON, Mo. — A train derailment involving vehicles prompted an emergency response in Ferguson on Ferguson Avenue, where authorities requested a hazardous materials team after determining that one of the train cars contained ethyl alcohol.
Emergency units were dispatched to 617 Ferguson Avenue after reports of the rail incident. Responders found a train that had derailed with vehicles involved.
Officials confirmed there was no reported entrapment. Crews were checking the scene for injuries and evaluating those involved in the incident.
A Hazmat response was requested because one rail car involved in the derailment was carrying ethyl alcohol. Emergency crews were assessing the rail car for any potential leak or hazardous condition and working to secure the area.
The presence of ethyl alcohol prompted additional safety precautions while responders examined the derailed train and surrounding vehicles.
At this time, authorities have not released details about possible injuries, the cause of the derailment or the extent of damage.
The investigation and emergency response remain ongoing in Ferguson, and officials are expected to provide additional information once the scene has been fully assessed.