Lakeland student struck by car dies

LAKELAND - A high school freshman in Lakeland who was hit by a car on the way home from school has died, according to the Polk County Sheriff's Office.

Colton Meyers, 14, was a student at Tenoroc High School. He was struck at Old Dixie Highway and Taylor Road Southeast, less than a mile from Tenoroc High School.

Deputies say Meyers was walking across Old Dixie Highway when he was struck by a classmate.  Investigators believe the 17-year-old driver was trying to pass another car when he slammed into Meyers and then hit a pole.

Meyers was pronounced dead at Tampa General Tuesday evening.

Detectives say the 17-year-old driver did stop after the accident, and is cooperating with the investigation. There's no word yet if charges will be filed.

Several students witnessed the accident, officials said, and grief counselors will be at the school all day Wednesday.