In a heartbreaking incident, a Michigan State Police trooper lost his life after being struck by a vehicle during a routine traffic stop. The tragic event occurred on Wednesday night on I-75 near Birch Run Road in Saginaw County. The trooper, identified as Joel Popp, 39, worked at the Tri-City Post and was pronounced dead at Hurley Hospital in Flint after sustaining serious injuries.
Michigan State Trooper Killed
The unfortunate event took place when the trooper, identified as Joel Popp, 39, from the Tri-City Post, was conducting a traffic stop on northbound I-75. The incident occurred at 7:12 p.m., and Popp was hit by an 81-year-old driver while outside his patrol car.
The driver struck not only Trooper Popp but also two patrol cars, resulting in serious injuries to the elderly driver. The injured trooper was rushed to Hurley Hospital in Flint, where he succumbed to his injuries.
How Did MSP Trooper Killed?
The trooper, identified as Joel Popp, 39, from the Tri-City Post, was conducting a traffic stop on northbound I-75 when the tragedy unfolded. According to Michigan State Police reports, Popp and his fellow troopers were investigating a suspected impaired driver stopped in a curved lane of travel.
“An 81-year-old driver struck two patrol cars and Popp, who was outside his patrol car,” MSP stated. The impact resulted in serious injuries to the elderly driver, but he is expected to survive.
Condolences and Mourning
In the aftermath of the incident, Michigan State Police released a statement requesting the community’s support: “Please keep our trooper’s family in your thoughts.” The loss of a dedicated law enforcement officer has sent shockwaves through the community, leading to an outpouring of condolences.
Official Statements
Col. James F. Grady II emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “I ask that you please keep his family, fellow troopers, and all whose lives he has touched in your thoughts.” The lack of immediate details about the incident has not deterred the public from expressing solidarity with the Michigan State Police during this challenging time.
Michigan State Trooper Death Report
Following the incident, Michigan State Police released a statement urging everyone to keep Trooper Popp’s family in their thoughts. The specifics of the accident and the subsequent investigation are detailed in the official MSP Trooper Death Report.
According to the report, the troopers were engaged in handling a suspected impaired driver, and the tragic collision occurred during this process. The report emphasizes the circumstances, stating, “Popp and other troopers were investigating a suspected impaired driver stopped on northbound I-75.”
Conclusion
The tragic death of Michigan State Trooper Joel Popp serves as a stark reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily. As the community mourns this loss, the incident also underscores the importance of road safety and the need for drivers to exercise caution during traffic stops.
In memory of Trooper Popp, the Michigan State Police community comes together to honor his service and sacrifice. The investigation into the circumstances of the incident will continue, shedding light on the events leading to this unfortunate tragedy.