Florida Woman Killed After Car Strikes Semi-Truck and Crashes Into Church Near Haines City

A tragic early morning crash in Polk County, Florida left a 24-year-old woman dead after her vehicle struck a semi-truck, traveled underneath it, and ultimately crashed into a nearby church, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities say the crash involved a complex sequence of events and remains under investigation.

What We Know About the Crash

According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred shortly before 12:30 a.m. on April 17, 2026, near U.S. 27 and B Moore Road, just outside Haines City.

Investigators say 24-year-old Jovanna Saily of Bowling Green was driving a Hyundai sedan when she collided with the trailer of a semi-truck that was making a legal U-turn to head northbound on U.S. 27. The semi-truck driver, a 24-year-old Tampa woman, reportedly saw the sedan approaching at a distance before initiating the turn.

Following the impact, Saily’s vehicle traveled underneath the semi-truck, crossed the median, exited the roadway, struck a fence, and ultimately crashed into the wall of the First Apostolic Pentecostal Church located on B Moore Road.

First responders pronounced the driver deceased at the scene.

The semi-truck driver was not injured and is cooperating with investigators.

Authorities noted that there were no pre-impact skid marks at the scene, and based on preliminary findings and witness statements, speed is believed to have been a contributing factor. At this time, no criminal charges are expected.

The Dangers of Underride and High-Speed Collisions

Crashes involving passenger vehicles and semi-trucks can be especially dangerous, particularly when underride collisions occur.

Key risks include:

• Vehicles traveling underneath trailers during impact
• Severe structural damage to passenger vehicles
• High-speed collisions reducing reaction time
• Secondary impacts after the initial crash

Underride crashes are among the most deadly types of collisions due to the lack of protection for occupants.

Legal Considerations in Truck-Related Crashes

Even when a commercial vehicle is making a lawful maneuver, investigations typically examine multiple factors to determine liability.

Potential issues that may be evaluated include:

• Speed and actions of the passenger vehicle driver
• Timing and visibility of the semi-truck’s U-turn
• Roadway design and traffic flow conditions
• Compliance with safety regulations for commercial vehicles

Each crash requires a detailed analysis of the sequence of events and contributing factors.

Wrongful Death Claims Under Florida Law

Under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act, Florida Statutes §§ 768.16–768.26, surviving family members may have the right to pursue compensation if negligence contributed to the fatal crash.

Damages may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support and future earnings
• Loss of companionship
• Mental pain and suffering

Even in cases where no criminal charges are filed, civil claims may still be pursued.

Investigation Ongoing

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the crash, including the role speed may have played and the circumstances surrounding the semi-truck’s maneuver.

Our Thoughts Are With the Victim’s Family

Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Jovanna Saily during this difficult time.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families throughout Florida in wrongful death cases involving complex vehicle and trucking accidents. If your loved one was killed in a crash, our firm can help investigate the circumstances and determine whether a claim may be appropriate.

We offer free consultations and handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning no fees unless we recover compensation for your family.