Death Investigation: Missing Lakeland Man Identified

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LAKELAND, FL - On Thursday, July 2, 2020, the Lakeland Police Department was called to the 900 block of E. Bella Vista St. regarding a body that had been located in a wooded area north of the roadway.  Detectives initially were unable to confirm the identity or cause of death at the location. The body was transferred to the Medical Examiner’s office for an autopsy. Today, the body was identified as Ricky Kimball of Lakeland.  A cause of death is not known and is pending further investigation.

Ricky Kimball, age 65, had been reported missing during the early morning hours of June 30, 2020, from his work location, the Circle K located at 4415 Kathleen Road. The report, filed with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, states that Kimball was working his normal shift when he walked outside to take a break. Kimball never returned to the store.   

This remains an open and active investigation. If anyone has any information related to the case, please contact Detective Ted Sealey at Edward.Sealey@Lakelandgov.net or 863.834.5991.