Michigan State Police trooper fatally struck by vehicle during traffic stop
A Michigan State Police trooper was struck by a vehicle and killed Wednesday night while conducting a traffic stop, authorities said.
The trooper, identified as Joel Popp, made the stop on Interstate 75 in Saginaw County when he was hit, according to the State Police. He died at a hospital.
MSP says Popp, 39, was outside of his patrol vehicle investigating a suspected impaired driver when he was struck by an 81-year-old man. The impaired driver suffered serious injuries but is expected to be OK.
Popp joined MSP in January 2020 and served at the Tri-City Post. He is survived by his wife and young daughter.
"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," Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP, said in a statement. "I ask that you please keep his family, fellow troopers and all whose lives he has touched in your thoughts."
MSP says Popp is the 56th trooper killed while on duty.