A somber incident unfolded in northeast Polk County, Florida, where a tragic two-vehicle crash claimed the life of a 41-year-old motorcyclist from Osceola County on Saturday night. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office reported the heartbreaking news.

Authorities were alerted to the scene at approximately 9:02 p.m., responding to a call on westbound Ronald Reagan Parkway, near Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Loughman. Deputies, along with Polk County Fire Rescue, swiftly arrived to address the situation.

Traffic homicide detectives shared details of the incident, revealing that the motorcyclist was heading west on Ronald Reagan Parkway when a Mercedes, traveling east, attempted a U-turn at Thousand Oaks Boulevard. This maneuver tragically brought the car into the path of the oncoming motorcycle, resulting in a devastating collision.

The motorcyclist, identified as Reinaldo Lopez Jr. from Poinciana, was pronounced dead at the scene. Despite wearing a helmet, Lopez Jr. could not survive the impact, underscoring the severity of the crash.

The other vehicle involved, a 2015 Mercedes-Benz sedan, was driven by a 30-year-old woman from Davenport. Accompanying her was a 25-year-old passenger from Winter Garden. Both occupants were secured with seat belts and fortunately emerged unscathed from the accident.

The roadway was closed for about three hours. Investigators said speed does not appear to have been a factor, and criminal charges are not expected, though the investigation remains open.