On November 12, 1992, 80-year-old Mary Vavrek was transported to Winter Haven Hospital and died a short time later. The cause of death was listed as natural. The next day, the victim’s husband, 86-year-old Andy Vavrek, was transported to Winter Haven Hospital in serious condition.  On November 16, 1992, blood work revealed that Mary had died from ingesting anti-freeze and her husband had also ingested anti-freeze. A bottle of Sherry with anti-freeze was found in the liquor cabinet in the residence. 

Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit at (863) 298-6379, or send an email to coldcase@polksheriff.org.