A Michigan State Police trooper tragically lost his life after being hit by a vehicle during a routine traffic stop on Interstate 75 in Saginaw County, as confirmed by state police. Joel Popp, aged 39, was engaged in a stop involving a suspected impaired driver when an 81-year-old man collided with two patrol cars and the trooper himself on Wednesday evening, officials said.
According to The Detroit News, Popp was quickly transported to Hurley Medical Center in Flint, where he succumbed to his injuries. Col. James F. Grady II, the MSP director, expressed his deep sorrow, stating, “This is a message none of us wishes to deliver. With a very heavy heart I confirm the death of one of our own, Tpr. Joel Popp,” He requested that the public keep the fallen officer's family and colleagues in their thoughts.
Further details provided by ClickOnDetroit, revealed that the other driver involved in the fatal incident sustained serious injuries but is expected to recover. Trooper Popp, who enlisted with the MSP in January 2020 and was a member of the 137th Trooper Recruit School, is survived by his wife Stefanie and their young daughter.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with our brothers and sisters at the Michigan State Police for losing one of their own, and the family of Trooper Popp,” Trenton Police Department posted on Facebook, as reported by MLive.
Jim Santilli, CEO of the Transportation Improvement Association, extended his heartfelt sympathy to Popp's family and colleagues, underscoring how law enforcement officers risk their lives every day for the safety of others. MSP has acknowledged Popp as the 56th trooper to be tragically killed in the line of duty
