By Ciara Perez, Investigative Journalist | iSkyCreations – News & Media (ISC)
Published Feb 9th, 2024
Winter Haven, FL – The Polk County community is in mourning following a fatal hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of a well-known local figure. Michael Ratton, 47, a homeless man recognized by many in the area for his distinctive pink adult tricycle, was struck and killed late Thursday evening, February 8, 2024, around 11:20 p.m. The tragedy occurred on Winter Lake Road in Winter Haven, just west of Old Eagle Lake Road and US 17.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) Traffic Homicide Unit, which is currently investigating the fatal incident, Ratton was attempting to cross Winter Lake Road from south to north when he was hit by an unidentified vehicle, believed to be possibly commercial in nature. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, authorities have found themselves at a standstill with no witnesses to the crash. The discovery of Ratton’s body was made by a passerby, who immediately contacted PCSO to report the grim find.