Driver killed in crash off SR-163 in Mission Valley

A man was killed Tuesday after his BMW veered off state Route 163 in Mission Valley Tuesday and struck a tree, the California Highway Patrol said.

The crash happened about 2:20 a.m. off the southbound lanes of the freeway, north of Friars Road.

For unknown reasons, the gray BMW 850i veered from the freeway and struck a tree, causing the car to catch fire, officials said. The driver was then ejected from the car.

The driver and his passenger were taken to a hospital, where the driver died. His name has not been released.

Officials did not provide information on the extent of the passenger’s injuries.

It is unknown if alcohol and/or drugs were a factor in the crash, officials said. A toxicology report is pending.

Investigators are looking for witnesses to the crash. Anyone with information can call CHP at 858-293-6000.