An Orillia man is dead, following a multi-vehicle collision on Highway 17 west of Marathon, Ont., on Friday night.

Police say the driver of a westbound vehicle lost control and struck a guard rail while attempting to round a curve, around 6:50 p.m.

A passing eastbound motorist stopped to assist. Police say the two men were waiting for more help, when another vehicle lost control – striking both men and the first vehicle. The two men received severe injuries.

Four people were transported to a nearby hospital, where a 35-year-old Orillia man was pronounced dead while being treated for his injuries.  

A second man from Marathon was treated for head injuries. Two other people were treated for minor injuries and were released.

Highway 17 was closed for 13 hours while OPP conducted their investigation.