The Michigan State Police community is mourning the loss of 39-year-old Trooper Joel Popp, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty last Wednesday during a routine traffic stop on I-75 near Birch Run.

Funeral services for Trooper Joel Popp are being held today at the Saginaw Valley State University Ryder Center on Bay Road in Saginaw County.

Michigan State Police have clarified that there won’t be a public procession to the cemetery, as the graveside service is intended to be a private affair.

Monetary donations for the Popp Family can be made in care of the Michigan State Troopers Assistance Fund (MSTAF). In the Tribute section, please indicate your gift is for the Popp Family.

While the community rallies together to mourn and support the Popp family, investigations into the deadly crash are ongoing. Authorities are actively exploring whether the 81-year-old driver responsible for the collision was distracted at the time of the incident.

You can click here to donate to a GoFund me set up by the family. State Police confirmed with me this is real and the money will go to the family.

Michigan State Police reported last week that the elderly driver is currently hospitalized with serious injuries, adding an additional layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation.

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