Police sergeant critically injured in crash

WINTER HAVEN - Two law enforcement officers have been hurt in a crash in Winter Haven, one of them critically.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office says Avon Park Police Sergeant Jacob Bratten was driving a Jeep Wrangler down Cypress Gardens Boulevard Tuesday evening. His passenger was a fellow officer named Lawrence Shnider.

They were heading to work when investigators say 58-year-old Bernice Nacrelli drove her Mazda Miata convertible into the path of the Jeep at Lake Ruby Drive.

The impact of the crash ejected Sergeant Bratten from the Jeep. He was airlifted to Lakeland Regional Medical Center where is in critical condition.

Officer Shnider hurt his leg in the crash and was taken to Winter Haven Hospital. He is in stable condition.

The driver of the Miata was also rushed to Winter Haven Hospital for minor injuries.