Abey DiazPino, 44, killed, after a car accident on Highway 441 North near Okeechobee.

The Okeechobee County Sheriff's office made a surprising discovery recently after deputies responded to a single vehicle accident.

The crash happened on March 21st in the 168th block of Highway 441 North.

Deputies found the driver of the car, Abey DiazPino, age 44, dead at the scene. The sheriff's office then turned the investigation over to Florida Highway Patrol.

FHP responded to 1185 NE 342 Trail in Okeechobee to notify the victim's family.

Troopers found no one at home but did locate several dogs on the premises. Animal Care and Control was called to retrieve the dogs from the home, and a member of the sheriff's office waited for them to arrive.

While waiting for the animals to be transported the deputy recognized signs of a grow house.

After a search warrant was executed the Okeechobee County Narcotics Task Force entered the home and discovered 87 active marijuana plants, with a total weight of 22 pounds. The estimated street value is approximately $88,000.