According to the Michigan State Police (MSP), an MSP trooper was killed in the line of duty on Wednesday, January 24, when he was conducting a traffic stop along I-75. Apparently, he and other MSP troopers had stopped a driver they suspected of driving under the influence at about 7 pm, and and elderly driver crashed into their patrol cars.
The crash, which occurred along a curved part of the interstate, killed Trooper Joel Popp, 39 years old, who was standing outside of his patrol car when the collision occurred. Mr. Popp is survived by his wife and his young daughter.
Describing the horrific accident in a press release, the Michigan State Police said, “At 7:12 p.m., on Wednesday, Jan. 24, Popp and other troopers were investigating a suspected impaired driver who was stopped on northbound I-75 near Birch Run in a curved lane of travel. Another motorist, an 81-year-old male, struck two patrol cars and Popp, who was outside his patrol vehicle.”
Continuing, the press release noted that Mr. Popp made it to a local medical center, but sadly passed away of his injuries while there. The press release also noted that the other driver is injured but will likely survive. It stated: “Popp was transported to Hurley Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries and passed away. The other driver had serious injuries but is expected to survive.”
The press release then described Trooper Popp’s career in the MSP and his family life, saying, “Popp, 39 years of age, enlisted with the MSP in January of 2020, graduating as a member of the 137th Trooper Recruit School. He has served at the Tri-City Post his entire career. Popp is survived by his wife Stefanie and a young daughter.”
In conclusion, the statement thanked those from other agencies who arrived at the scene to try to help Trooper Popp and the medical team for their hard work in trying to save him. It provided, “The MSP wishes to acknowledge our many police partners and emergency responders who assisted at the scene and who continue to provide support to our department during this difficult time. We also want to thank the staff and medical professionals at Hurley Medical Center for their care and compassion.”
The press release also quoted the Director of the Michigan State Police, Col. James F. Grady II, as saying, “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. I ask that you please keep his family, fellow troopers and all whose lives he has touched in your thoughts.”
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In a later post on Facebook the MSP noted, “We appreciate the outpouring of support you have shown us following the loss of Tpr. Joel Popp. Anyone wishing to support the Popp family with condolences or monetary donations, please visit Michigan.gov/JoelPopp for information.”
All 50 states currently have a “Move Over” law meant to prevent horrific tragedies such as this one. The law requires that drivers slow down or move over, away from emergency vehicles with their lights flashing or which are handling emergency response. Had the elderly driver followed that law, Mr. Popp might still be alive.
Featured image credit: Michigan State Police