Lansing, MI – The Michigan State Police (MSP) announced the tragic loss of Trooper Joel Popp, who died in the line of duty during a traffic stop incident.
According to MSP Director Col. James F. Grady II, the incident occurred at 7:12 p.m. on January 24, when Trooper Popp and colleagues were attending to a suspected impaired driver on northbound I-75 near Birch Run. During the operation, an 81-year-old motorist collided with two patrol cars and struck Trooper Popp, who was outside his vehicle. Despite being rushed to Hurley Medical Center, Trooper Popp, aged 39, succumbed to his injuries.
The MSP, mourning the loss of Trooper Popp, who joined in January 2020 and served at the Tri-City Post, extends gratitude to responders and medical staff for their support in this challenging time. Trooper Popp, remembered for his dedication, leaves behind a wife and young daughter. He is the 56th MSP officer to fall in the line of duty.
