Driver Dies After Timber Impales Vehicle in Semi Collision

A devastating crash in Florida turned deadly after a truck carrying timber became the center of a horrifying collision.

Authorities say 44-year-old Gabriel Lorenzo Beauford was killed Wednesday morning after his vehicle slammed into a semi-truck hauling logs at the intersection of US 98 North and State Road 471.

According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Beauford was driving south behind the Volvo truck when the semi slowed down to make a left turn. Investigators say he may not have realized the truck was slowing — and crashed directly into the load.

The impact was catastrophic.

Officials say large pieces of timber were protruding from the truck and pierced straight through Beauford’s vehicle, causing fatal injuries. First responders found him dead inside the cab when they arrived around 10:50 a.m.

The force of the crash also caused damage to the trailer and cargo, leading to a hazardous material spill at the scene.

The driver of the semi, a 34-year-old man from Ocala, was not injured. Authorities say he was in full compliance with safety regulations related to the timber load.

The crash shut down the roadway for roughly seven hours as emergency crews worked to clear debris and contain the spill. Multiple agencies, including Polk County Fire Rescue and road maintenance teams, responded to the scene.

Officials say the investigation is still ongoing, but at this time, no criminal or civil charges are expected.