Staff report

Katherine Bockman, 25, of Columbia, S.C., was declared dead following a one-car accident on Interstate 77 at the mile 89 marker, near Dobson. Although an investigation has yet to be concluded, according to State Highway Patrol Trooper R. Carter, it is possible that the car Bockman was operating, a late-model Toyota sedan, may have hydroplaned, which contributed to the vehicle sliding off the interstate and struck a tree, where she died. Carter said Bockman was wearing a seatbelt. He added no witnesses are known or had come forth.

A number of emergency medical squads -- among them Elkin Rescue, Dobson Rescue, Dobson Fire Department, Surry County Rescue and CC Camp Fire Department -- responded.