A Petawawa man is charged with racing a motor vehicle following a fatal collision that killed a 22-year-old man west of Perth.

Investigators say a police officer patrolling the area saw two vehicles driving at a high speed prior to the crash.

Michael Whyte, of Tay Valley Township, was killed when he lost control of his car and was thrown from his vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The crash happened as Whyte headed westbound on Scotch Line Road in Tay Valley Township just before 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Police said an officer spotted Whyte's vehicle speeding down the road just prior to the collision.

The officer, who was travelling in the opposite direction, activated his emergency lights. By the time the officer turned the vehicle around, the cars were gone.

Police say the officer continued down the road, where he spotted Whyte's black Honda Prelude in the ditch.

Police later tracked down Christopher Harris, the 21-year-old driver of the other vehicle. He is charged with dangerous driving, racing a motor vehicle and failing to stop for police.

Harris was released on a promise to appear in court in Perth in September.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Ontario provincial police at 613-267-2626.