According to the Michigan State Police, a trooper was tragically killed after being hit by an out of control vehicle while performing a traffic stop, on Interstate 75.
Trooper Joel Popp, 39, was struck by a vehicle on I-75 near Birch Run, Michigan subsequent to a lane change in a curved area, according to the police.
Birch Run is approximately 90 miles northwest of Detroit.
Trooper Popp was outside of his patrol car when an 81-year-old motorist collided with him.
The 81-year-old driver also collided with two patrol vehicles, according to troopers, who were on scene.
We are saddened to report Tpr. Joel Popp has passed away, as a result of injuries sustained after being struck on a traffic stop on Wednesday, January 24, 2024.
Trooper Popp enlisted with the MSP in January of 2020, graduating as a member of the 137th Trooper Recruit School. He… pic.twitter.com/JlWyUtR3Dl
— Michigan State Police (@MichStatePolice) January 25, 2024
According to investigators, despite suffering severe injuries, the other driver is expected to survive.
Police reported that Trooper Popp was rushed to the hospital, where he unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.
The Michigan State Police said that Popp joined the force in January of 2020.
Popp is the 56th MSP trooper to be killed in the line of duty.
According to social media posts, Popp and his family were revered among his friends and community. A massive outpouring of support flooded Facebook illustrating what a genuine, kind, and loving person Trooper Popp was.
Trooper Joel Popp is survived by his wife and young daughter. Trooper Popp and his wife were also devoted and loving foster parents.
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