DAVENPORT, FL – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 45-year-old Billado Mendez following a fatal two-vehicle crash early Tuesday morning, July 22, 2025, at the intersection of Power Line Road and Snell Creek Road in Davenport.
According to the PCSO Traffic Homicide Unit, Mendez was driving a silver Toyota pickup westbound on Snell Creek Road when he failed to stop at a posted stop sign. His vehicle was struck on the driver’s side by a northbound white Ford F250 work truck. The impact caused the Toyota to overturn and come to rest on its roof in a nearby yard. The F250 also came to a stop in the same yard after spinning 180 degrees.
A passenger in the Toyota, identified as 34-year-old Heydi Maricela Funes Inestroza of Davenport, was not wearing a seatbelt and was pronounced deceased at the scene. A second passenger, a 36-year-old woman from Groveland, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Mendez sustained minor abrasions and declined medical attention. The driver of the F250, a 45-year-old man from Haines City, was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigators say Mendez initially claimed that Funes Inestroza was driving at the time of the crash, but evidence confirmed he was behind the wheel. Mendez is reportedly in the United States illegally from Mexico and has never possessed a valid driver’s license. His criminal history includes a prior DUI and previous charges for driving without a license.
Mendez was arrested and charged with:
- No Valid Driver’s License Involving Death (Felony 2nd Degree)
- Giving False Information to Law Enforcement During an Investigation (Felony 3rd Degree)
Due to his immigration status, both charges have been enhanced. An ICE detainer has been placed on Mendez.
Authorities are asking for the public’s help in locating next of kin for Funes Inestroza. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Mendez at 863-668-3105.
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