An Illinois State Police trooper was tragically killed in Champaign County following a collision while on duty, state officials confirmed. ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly announced that Trooper Corey S. Thompsen, age 28, lost his life in a crash that occurred Friday just before 3:45 p.m. on East Leverett Road, according to a statement released by ABC7 Chicago.
As reported by NBC Chicago, the crash involved a truck driven by Helen Torres, 42, who after stopping at a stop sign, proceeded to enter the roadway and collided with Thompsen's motorcycle. Thompsen, who had just concluded a traffic enforcement operation, was subsequently thrown from his bike. Although a passerby rendered aid and first responders quickly transported him to a local hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The truck's driver, Torres, was cited for Failure to Yield Right of Way at a Stop Intersection, and for operating a vehicle with an expired driver’s license of less than one year. Illinois State Police indicated there was no evidence suggesting Torres was impaired by drugs or alcohol at the time of the incident. The investigation into the collision remains ongoing.
In a heartfelt expression of loss, Director Kelly said, "This is a sad moment. We are hurting. Corey's brothers and sisters in motor enforcement, Special Operation Group, Troop 7, patrol, the Zone, Vermilion Metropolitan Enforcement Group, and across ISP are hurting," as obtained by ABC7 Chicago. Thompsen was a member of the Special Operations Group Fatal Four team and had nearly five years of service with the ISP. He is survived by his wife Chelsea; mother, Susan; father, Steve; and his brothers.
The Illinois State Police are currently mourning the loss of a colleague and brother in arms, as a dedicated officer's end of watch has come far too soon.
