A Mercedes-Benz driver who crashed into a tree in Porter Ranch Saturday died, and a passenger was injured, authorities said.

The single-car crash near 11311 Tampa Ave., near Rinaldi Street, took place about 1:50 a.m., said Los Angeles police Sgt. Donald Kelly of the Valley Traffic Division.

The driver died at the scene, David Ortiz of the fire department said.

A passenger was taken to a hospital, initially in critical condition, he said.

According to Kelly, the driver lost control of the southbound car near Rinaldi, crossed the road and ran into a tree head-on.

The passenger was said to be hospitalized with stable vital signs, Kelly said.

"We're still checking to see if alcohol or drugs played a role in this crash, but we don't yet know why the driver lost control of his vehicle," Kelly said.     

The name of the fatally injured man was unavailable pending notification of his next of kin.

Anyone who saw the wreck was asked to call police at 818-644-8000.

-- City News Service