A Dix Hills man was killed in a single-car crash that shut down the eastbound lanes of the Long Island Expressway for several hours this morning.

Police say Blake Marcus, 20, was heading east in a 2001 Acura on the LIE when he apparently lost control of the vehicle just east of exit 49 at approximately 4:25 a.m. The vehicle struck a guardrail and then slid down an embankment off the side of the road, ending up in a wooded area.

Officials say that Marcus and his passenger, who has been identified as 21-year-old Dorian America, had to be extricated from the vehicle by first responders.

Marcus was pronounced dead at Nassau University Medical Center. America, who is from Wheatley Heights, was treated for injuries that were not life-threatening.

Detectives say the young men were apparently minutes away from home after spending the evening in New York City. They say speed may have been a factor in the crash.

The vehicle has been impounded for a safety check, and an investigation into the crash is underway. Detectives are asking anyone with any information to contact them by calling 631-854-8252.

For the latest local traffic updates, visit the News 12 Long Island Traffic Center or watch LIVE Traffic and Weather.