UPDATE: Police are investigating if a fatal crash on the Kiewa Valley Highway on Friday morning was linked to fatigue.
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An 18-year-old Border man died when his car hit a tree while travelling south on the road at Baranduda about 3.30am.
The incident occurred between Baranduda Drive and Boyes Road.
The vehicle caught alight on impact and was found by a passing truck driver.
Police spoke to the family of the registered driver but are yet to formally identify the man.
Acting Sergeant Andrew Leonard said there was nothing that could have been done to save the man.
“We’ll look into the usual factors of fatigue, speed and the environment,” he said.
“At this point in time it’s too early for us to say what’s actually caused the accident.
“A single male occupant was found deceased.
“A truck driver has come across the vehicle on fire and there was nothing anyone could have done.”
The vehicle left the left side of the road and travelled in a straight line into the tree.
The impact caused extensive damage to the tree, which VicRoads will have to remove, with the highway likely to be closed into the early afternoon.
“Half the tree is missing and there are some fairly sizeable cracks up the other side,” Acting Sergeant Leonard said.
“We’ll keep the road shut at least until the early afternoon until VicRoads brings the tree down.
“We’ve spoken to the family members of the car’s registered owner.
“The family have been woken up with this news which they weren’t expecting.
“It’s a worry for all parents with kids coming home, driving at that time of night.”
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
EARLIER: A fatal crash near Baranduda on Friday morning is being investigated by police.
Police said a Holden sedan was travelling south on the Kiewa Valley Highway about 3.40am when the driver lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a tree.
The driver, who is yet to be identified, died at the scene.
Diversions are currently in place and the Kiewa Valley Highway will be closed between John Boyes Road and the Murray Valley Highway.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or with further information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at crimestoppersvic.com.au.