READFIELD — A man and a woman were killed early Monday morning after their SUV went off Main Street, struck a tree and burst into flames.

Their bodies were taken to the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in Augusta to verify their identities, according to a news release from Kennebec County Sheriff’s Office.

Chief Deputy Chris Read said deputies responded to 1084 Main St. at 12:52 a.m. for a report of an SUV into a tree and on fire. He said authorities believe the Ford Flex was the same vehicle that previously passed a state police trooper on North Road, allegedly in excess of 70 mph. The trooper was unable to locate it and drove around the area until coming upon the crash.

Deputy Jacob Poulin is investigating the incident. Preliminary investigation indicates speed may have been a contributing factor, authorities said.

Local fire and rescue personnel responded to the scene.

The vehicle was towed and will be held for examination as the investigation continues.