LOWER LAKE >> A Middletown man died after a one car accident on Thursday night.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the victim had suffered severe injuries at the scene. First responders called for a helicopter and he was transported by a REACH air ambulance to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, where he succumbed to the injuries.
Pending notification of family, CHP is withholding identification of the victim.
The accident occurred just before 10:15 p.m. The man was reportedly driving north on Highway 29. After passing the intersection with Diener Dr., he apparently lost control of the car and collided with a tree.
Investigators have yet to determine the vehicle’s speed at the time.
The car came to rest in a position partially blocking the southbound lane. The highway was closed while officers tried to provide care and clear the lane.
Officers responding to the scene could not immediately determine if the victim had been wearing a seat belt. CHP reported the were no other occupants in the vehicle and no other cars involved.
The cause of the accident remains under investigation.
