A driver was killed and three passengers were taken to University of Michigan Hospital today after an accident that occurred during a heavy downpour on I-94 near Dexter.

Michigan State Police are withholding identification of the victim until next-of-kin in Illinois are notified.

The single-vehicle accident occurred at 11.27 a.m., when the 2007 Honda Civic sedan went out of control in the eastbound lanes and smashed into the center divider about a half-mile east of Baker Road.

Trooper Tom Proffitt, who investigated at the scene, said no other vehicle was involved. “At this point we believe hydroplaning was possible because of the wet conditions,” he said.

All four occupants of the car are believed to be Illinois residents.

photo by Ronald Ahrens: State Police investigate the accident scene near Dexter.