1. State trooper crash in Birch Run
2. Trooper dies in Birch Run crash.

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

A Tragic Incident: Michigan State Police Trooper Fatally Struck on I-75 near Birch Run Road

BIRCH RUN, Mich. – In a devastating turn of events, a dedicated Michigan State Police trooper lost his life on Tuesday after being struck by a vehicle along northbound I-75, near the intersection of Birch Run Road. The trooper, identified as 39-year-old Joel Popp, had served his entire career at the Tri-City Post. His untimely demise leaves behind his grieving wife, Stefanie, and a young daughter.

According to Michigan State Police officials, the incident occurred around 7:15 p.m., when Trooper Popp and his colleagues were conducting a routine traffic stop and investigating a suspected impaired driver. The unfortunate incident unfolded as they were positioned in a curve on northbound I-75, near the Birch Run interchange.

Tragically, an 81-year-old man, traveling in the same direction, collided with two patrol cars and Trooper Popp himself, who was standing outside his vehicle at the time of impact. The force of the collision was severe, causing serious injuries to Trooper Popp, who was immediately rushed to Hurley Medical Center in Flint.

Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Trooper Popp succumbed to his injuries, leaving behind a devastated community mourning the loss of a dedicated officer. The 81-year-old driver sustained serious injuries as well but is expected to survive.

Upon hearing the tragic news, numerous Michigan State Police troopers rushed to Hurley Medical Center to show their unwavering support for their fallen colleague, demonstrating the tight-knit nature of the law enforcement community.

Trooper Popp joined the ranks of the Michigan State Police in 2020, successfully graduating from the esteemed 137th Trooper Recruit School. His untimely passing marks the 56th trooper in Michigan to be killed in the line of duty, highlighting the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day.

Following the incident, northbound I-75 experienced a temporary closure at the M-57 interchange in Clio. Investigators meticulously documented and cleared the scene, ensuring a thorough investigation into the tragic incident. After approximately four hours, all lanes of the freeway were reopened late on Wednesday night, restoring normal traffic flow.

The loss of Trooper Joel Popp serves as a stark reminder of the risks undertaken by law enforcement officers who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving their communities. As Michigan mourns the loss of a brave and selfless trooper, thoughts and condolences pour in for his grieving wife, Stefanie, and their young daughter, left to navigate the painful void left behind by their beloved husband and father.

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– State trooper dies in a crash Wednesday night in Birch Run
– Local State trooper crash Birch Run.