Male driver killed after tree falls across Warburton Highway Lilydale

A MAN has died after his car was hit by a falling tree in galeforce winds on the Warburton Highway this morning.

A man has died in Lilydale after a tree fell across the road.

A MAN has died after his car was hit by a falling tree in galeforce winds on the Warburton Highway this morning.

Police and emergency services are at the scene of a crash on the Lilydale thoroughfare.

Police believe the male driver, a 33-year-old Wandin North man, was driving west just before 11am when his car was struck by a tree that fell across the roadway.

He is believed to have died at the scene, and the investigation is continuing.

Yarra Ranges highway patrol Sergeant David McIlfatrick said a “very large” pine tree fell across the road and landed on top of the man’s car, a Holden Commodore wagon.

“The tree has come across the road and hit the top of the car as it’s passing underneath and the car has continued on and collided with another tree,” Sgt McIlfatrick said.

The single occupant of the car, a 33-year-old Wandin North man, was killed instantly.

His family have been notified.

“It’s just really tragic and extremely unlucky the car was there at the time the tree fell,” Sgt McIlfatrick said.

Warburton Highway has now reopened to traffic.

Police will prepare a report for the coroner.

Any witnesses are urged to phone Yarra Ranges highway patrol on 9739 2300.