An 84-year-old man died when a car crashed into a tree after coming off a north-east road yesterday.
The incident took place on the A97 Alford to Huntly road at Culdrain, just south of Huntly.
Emergency services were called to the scene shortly before 1pm, with the road closed at the Huntly roundabout and drivers advised to find alternative routes.
The stretch remained shut late into the evening as an investigation into the collision was carried out.
Two fire engines, from Huntly and Keith, were tasked with cutting apart the gold Honda CRV Jeep so that the casualty could be removed from the damaged vehicle.
The car appeared to have overturned and rolled down an embankment, before coming to rest against some trees.
Police last night appealed for anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward.
Sergeant Alexander Bowser-Riley said: “Sadly a man has died following the collision.
“We are appealing for anyone who witnessed the accident, or who saw the vehicle beforehand, to contact us.”
One witness, who observed the immediate aftermath, said: “It was a mile from Gartly village, and the car was negotiating the right-hand bend towards Huntly.
“It was chucking it down with rain earlier, so I don’t know whether that had anything to do with it.”
Local councillor Moira Ingleby said: “I’m extremely sorry to hear of this and my thoughts are with the family and friends of those affected.
“I do know the road very well, and it is quite twisty.”
Fellow councillor Gwyneth Petrie said: “Every fatality on the roads is seriously concerning and upsetting, and my condolences go to the family.”
It is not know how many people were in the car.
Police closed the A97 at the junction with the B9002 Insch to Oyne road, and diversions were put in place onto the A96 Aberdeen to Inverness road in both directions.
Anyone with information should call the police on 101 using reference number 1517 of May 20.
