Police are investigating a fatal crash that snarled morning traffic on the eastbound side of the Southern State Parkway.
Police say a Mazda was traveling eastbound just west of Grand Avenue, when it struck an SUV from behind.
According to police, the Mazda struck the SUV and then traveled through the guardrail on the south shoulder before striking several trees.
The operator of the Mazda was pronounced dead at the scene
Officials say a passenger in the SUV was taken to Mercy Hospital and treated for minor injuries.
The identities of those involved in the accident are being withheld pending notification to next of kin.