A Blenheim man is dead after being hit by a truck early this morning on Highway 401 in West Elgin.

A tractor trailer travelling in the westbound lanes ran onto the should of the highway and fell on its side just after midnight blocking much of the road.

Provincial police say other motorists had stopped at the scene to help when another tractor trailer crashed into the rig that was lying on its side and also struck a car and an SUV.

Elgin OPP say two men who were lighting warning flares at the scene were also struck.

The man who was killed has been identified as prominent businessman, 57 year old Robert McGuigan of Blenheim.

Police say the westbound 401, about 1.5 west of Graham Road will remain closed until 4 p.m.