2 dead after SUV crashes into tree, bursts into flames, officials say

Two people are dead after an SUV crashed into a tree and burst into flames in Readfield, according to authorities.The Kennebec County Sheriff's Office announced Tuesday that deputies responded to the crash scene near 1084 Main St., which is along Route 17, shortly after 12:50 a.m. Monday.Officials said the vehicle involved in the crash, a Ford Flex, is believed to be the same one that had passed by a Maine State Police trooper on the North Road in Readfield while traveling at a speed in excess of 70 mph.The state trooper was initially unable to find the vehicle and continued driving around the area, eventually coming upon the crash scene on Main Street. Firefighters and emergency medical services personnel were then called to the scene.The two people who were killed in the crash will have their bodies examined by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Augusta to confirm their identities."Our deepest sympathies go out to the families of the victims," the Kennebec County Sheriff's Office said in a statement.Investigators believe speed may have been a contributing factor in the crash and caused the vehicle to go off the roadway and into a large tree.The sheriff's office said Deputy Jacob Poulin is conducting the crash investigation, which is still ongoing.Related content: