METHUEN, Mass. (WHDH) -- A fatal crash involving four vehicles occurred on the southbound side of Route 495 late afternoon Friday.

Preliminary reports by state police indicate Jeffrey Plante, 35, of Newburyport, was operating a 2005 Toyota Corolla northbound on Route 495 when, for unknown reasons, the car left the road, hit the median and went airborne.

According to state police, Plante's vehicle collided head-on into a 2008 Toyota Camry being operated by Kurt Kelly, 32, of Westford. Kurt Kelly suffered life-threatening injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene, police say.

According to state police, Plante also sustained life-threatening internal injuries and was transported by medical helicopter to Boston Medical Center. His condition is unknown.

There were two other vehicles damaged in the crash but the drivers did not sustain any injuries and did not contribute to the initial crash, according to state police.

Interstate 495 reopened after traffic was diverted to Route 110 in Lawrence. Traffic was backed up for several miles. An accident investigation is underway, but state police say alcohol does not appear to be a factor.

The southbound side of 495 was closed for about 3 1/2 hours.