A crash east of Morris has claimed the life of a 54-year-old teacher.

Police and emergency crews responded to the collision shortly after 8 a.m. on Wednesday on Highway 23 at Provincial Road 200, said RCMP.

A 54-year-old man was taken to hospital in Winnipeg, but later died from injuries.

School officials have identified the victim of the crash as George Forsyth a long-time teacher at Roseau Valley School in Dominion City.

Tim Mendel, superintendent for the Border Land School Division, said Forsyth was much adored by students.

Mendel described him as very caring and said Forsyth loved his job.

RCMP continue to investigate the cause of the collision.

Alcohol and speed are not considered factors in the crash.

Officers said a Volkswagen Jetta was traveling southbound on PR 200 when it crossed the intersection with Highway 23 and collided with an eastbound Chrysler Neon.

The Jetta overturned into the southeast ditch while the Neon came to a stop on the shoulder of road. Both vehicles were badly damaged.

Four teachers inside the Jetta were taken to hospital, including George Forsyth who was a passenger in the vehicle, said Mendel. The driver of the Neon, a teacher from another school, was also taken to hospital.

Counsellors have been brought in to offer support to staff and students in the school division, said Mendel.