Deldrick Leonard dies in fatal Lakeland car crash
Fatal Lakeland car crash death of Deldrick Leonard – Obituary
Deldrick Leonard, a 49-year-old resident of Winter Haven, lost his life following a crash in Lakeland on the night of March 2. Authorities say the collision occurred along East Memorial Boulevard and resulted in Leonard sustaining fatal injuries.
According to the Lakeland Police Department, the incident happened around 10:45 p.m. when a Ford SUV traveling west on East Memorial Boulevard veered off the roadway. Investigators say the vehicle struck a guardrail before crossing into the eastbound lanes, where it collided with a GMC SUV driven by Leonard.
Emergency responders transported both drivers to Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center for treatment. Despite medical efforts, Leonard later died from injuries he suffered in the crash.
Police later arrested 49-year-old Jeffery Ronald Allen, the driver of the Ford SUV, at his residence on the evening of March 7. Officers reported observing several signs suggesting he was impaired at the time of the crash.
As part of the investigation, authorities obtained a warrant to test Allen’s blood for alcohol levels. After reviewing the test results, investigators charged him with DUI manslaughter in connection with the fatal collision.