BIRCH RUN, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – A Michigan State Trooper (MSP) died after being hit during a traffic stop on Wednesday night.

“It is with the utmost sadness that the Michigan State Police confirms the on-duty death of Tpr. Joel Popp of the Tri-City Post,” a press release said. Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP, added “I ask that you please keep his family, fellow troopers and all whose lives he has touched in your thoughts.”

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Just after 7:00 on Wednesday night, Popp and other troopers were investigating a suspected impaired driver stopped on northbound I-75 near Birch Run in Saginaw County. While there, an 81-year-old motorist struck two patrol cars and Popp, who was outside his patrol vehicle. Popp later died at Hurley Medical Center. The other driver had serious injuries but is expected to survive.

The 39-year-old Popp enlisted with the MSP four years ago after graduating from the 137th Trooper Recruit School. He served at the Tri-City Post his entire career. Popp is survived by his wife Stefanie and a young daughter.

Popp is the 56th Michigan State Trooper to be killed in the line of duty.