One person has died and another is fighting for their life following a serious crash on the Heads of the Valleys Road.
Emergency services were called to the collision involving a blue Renault Kangoo and a black Renault Megane at around 4.10pm between Baverstocks and Hirwaun.
Despite the efforts of the emergency services, the driver of the Kangoo, a 63-year-old man, died at the scene.
The 27-year-old driver of the Megane was taken to the University Hospital of Wales, where he remains in a critical condition.
Two air ambulances and several other emergency crews were called to the scene at around 4.15pm.
A South Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said four crews attended the scene.
Cynon Valley AM Vikki Howells said on Twitter: “My thoughts are with all those involved in this serious accident.”
The crash caused heavy delays in the area, with the road closed for several hours.
Initially this article stated that two people had died in the crash. These details were given to us on-the-record by the Welsh Ambulance Service. South Wales Police have since stated that this information was incorrect.
The A465 remains closed in both directions with accident investigation work taking place between Hirwaun Road and Merthyr Road.
South Wales Police have asked drivers to "avoid the area where possible".
Traffic monitors initially reported that four cars were involved, by emergency services have now confirmed two vehicles were involved.
