GhLinks Media
A Michigan state police trooper named Joel Popp lost his life after he was struck and killed by a vehicle while assisting with a DUI investigation on northbound I-75 near Birch Run at about 7:10 pm.
He was standing outside of his vehicle when another motorist struck him and two patrol cars. Trooper Popp was transported to Hurley Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries.
Investigators say an 81-year-old man driving north on the freeway slammed into two patrol cars and Popp, who was outside his unit.
The 81-year-old sustained serious injuries, but he likely will survive.
Popp is the 56th Michigan State Trooper to be killed in the line of duty.
Who was Joel Popp?
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.
Trooper Popp had served with the Michigan State Police for four years and was assigned to the Tri-City Post.
Popp leaves behind his wife Stefanie and his young daughter.
